WELL-WISHERS packed St Peter’s Church in March to hear Rev Anthony Chandler give his final sermon as Rector.

The congregation turned out in force on Easter Sunday to say goodbye to Rev Chandler, who is retiring as Rector of St Peter’s and St Mary’s churches.

The Reverend, who became Rector of St Peter’s in 2000, will remain as priest in charge at St Mary’s for the remainder of the restoration work.

Churchwarden David Collison said: “It is always very sad to lose a priest of Anthony’s calibre, but I cannot imagine that he deserves anything less than a long and happy retirement after his service to St Peter’s.

“He is a man with many positive attributes; reliable, conscientious and a good listener.

“He has a good sense of humour and a strong sense of purpose and understanding of his responsibilities to the church and to all its members.”

During 12 years of service, Rev Chandler was chaplain to March’s Royal Naval Association, the Royal British Legion, 1220 Squadron Air Training Corps, the Army Cadets and the Scouts.

He also raised thousands of pounds for good causes on a fundraising journey to Cambodia.

At the end of Rev Chandler’s final service, Rev Jenny Webb offered a prayer of thanksgiving for the years he, and his wife Helen, had given to the church.

His retirement was then toasted with a special lunch in the church hall, provided by members of the congregation.

• CRAFT enthusiasts are being sought to take part in a festival at St Peter’s Church in September.

An exhibition of items made by the people of March will be on display and people are invited to take craft-making classes.

Exhibitors of all crafts are welcome, from pottery and embroidery, to model aircraft and railways.

For more information on the festival, which will take place on September 29, from 10am-5pm, contact Beth Letts on 01354 652264.