THE people of St Bartholomew's Church have said a fond farewell to Philip Richings, who has left the area after 35 years

Mr Richings has given outstanding service during two periods as churchwarden. He also led a youth group BYz, which was an active organisation in the parish for some years. Some of the young people's artwork, including a mosaic cross and an altar cloth, are still valued by the parish.

A presentation was made by Mr Richings' colleague Ruth Sexton, who will continue in office as churchwarden alongside his successor, Tom Goodwin.

The vicar, the Rev Vicki Burrows, thanked Mr Richings and his wife Jacqui, who has been a member of the servers team at the church for many years.

One of Mr Richings' major contributions to the community was in spearheading the church floodlighting scheme as part of the millennium celebrations. It is now possible for people to arrange floodlighting of the ancient building for special occasions, on payment of an appropriate donation.

Mr and Mrs Richings have moved to Cuckfield, West Sussex to be nearer their daughter and her family.