THE rector of a Redditch church will conduct his last service on Sunday after serving the people of Headless Cross and surrounding areas for almost a decade, writes Helen Clarke.

The Rev Brian Halfpenny, rector of the Ridge Team and St Luke's Church, retires at the end of April after 40 years in the ministry.

He will then be moving to enjoy his retirement in Bourton on the Water with his wife, Hazel.

His ministry started with ordination in Salisbury Cathedral followed by parochial ministry in Melksham, Wiltshire.

On completing his training he enlisted as a chaplain in the Royal Air Force where he served until 1991.

He attained the post of Chaplain in Chief with the RAF and served in many parts of the world before moving to Headless Cross.

Mr Halfpenny said: "This is the longest I have ever spent anywhere since I was a student. When I was with the RAF I spent 26 years travelling all over the world, I moved about every two or three years.

"My wife and I have made a great many friends here during my ministry and we will be keeping in touch with them.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the 10 years I have spent with the people of Redditch."

A farewell service of choral evensong will take place at 6.30pm on Sunday evening when the congregation of St Luke's and the Ridge parish will join Mr and Mrs Halfpenny, and members of the British Legion, RAF, ATC and other colleagues.

Following the service a presentation will take place in the Memorial Hall.