A WORCESTERSHIRE vicar and chaplain to West Mercia police will retire after almost 10 years in the job.
The Reverend Eric Petrie became Priest in Charge of Salwarpe and Hindlip with Martin Hussingtree and police chaplain in July 1998 but will leave the posts because of ill health.
He has been unwell and off duty for some months and will remain on sick leave until a date for his retirement is set.
The Bishop of Dudley, the Right Reverend David Walker, said: "Eric will be sadly missed.
"He has been a faithful parish priest and a good friend to the police.
"My prayers and best wishes will go with Eric, Heather and their family for the future".
Until the appointment of a replacement, the Rural Dean of Droitwich, the Reverend Canon Peter Kerr, will work with churchwardens to provide services and pastoral care.
Discussions about future chaplaincy will also take place with West Mercia Police.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article