THE Ven Frederick Hazell will celebrate his last service at St Bartholomew's Church in Tardebigge this month.

Mr Hazell, 73, who is married to Norma, was asked to take over as vicar of the church in 1999.

He was born in Preston, Lancashire, and was ordained in Derby.

During his career, he has served as chaplain at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica for three and a half years, served on the staff at St Martin's in the Field in Trafalgar Square and was the Archdeacon of Croydon for 16 years.

Mr Hazell said: "I have just recently been made part-time at St Bartholomew's, which only involves Sundays and three days a week, but there really is enough work here for a full-time vicar.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time serving the people of Tardebigge over the last few years.

"I've had a wonderful career within the church, moving around a great deal and serving in some very interesting places."

Mr Hazell's farewell service will take place on Sunday, which is also the Feast of Christ the King, from 11am.

The organist at the celebration will be the vicar's friend Barry Williams, of Croydon, who is organ adviser for the Diocese of Oxford.

Mr and Mrs Hazell will continue to live at their home in School Lane, Alvechurch, after the vicar's final service.