THE people of Wroughton bid a fond farewell to one of their favourite sons at the weekend as Canon Michael Johnson retired after 23 years in the parish.

The 65-year-old Vicar of Wroughton has been a popular figure at Wroughton Parish Church for more than two decades and on Sunday morning worshippers packed into the church for Canon Michael’s Farewell Eucharist.

Prayers were said, hymns were sung and a prolonged round of applause brought to an end his 23 years of dedicated service.

Canon Michael said: “It has been a brilliant journey and I am leaving a wonderful team of people who I have had the pleasure of working with over the years.

“It is fantastic to have had so much support from everybody in the parish and I am humbled to see so many people here today.

“I have so many happy memories and it has been a privilege to share them with everyone.”

A medley of classic hymns was sung by the congregation including Gloria in Excelsis and Thine be the Glory.

After the service, people were treated to a few glasses of bubbly and a generous offering of canapes as they congratulated Canon Michael on a long and successful ministry.

Canon Michael was ordained at St Paul’s Cathedral in 1978 and served in London parishes before his move to Wroughton in 1993.

Before being ordained he worked in an off licence and served in the merchant navy as a mate on coastal vessels.

Looking ahead to his retirement, he said: “I shall continue to work with the diocese in selecting candidates to be put forward for ordination, as well as a few things I haven’t had time for over the years.”

He said he would indulge his love of sailing and working on classic cars.

He said he is also looking forward to spending more time with wife Sue Dallyn, to whom he issued a personal and heartfelt thanks for her role as a vicar’s wife, a job he described as “not the easiest thing to do”.

During the service, a statement was read out by the Rt Revd Dr Lee Rayfield, the Bishop of Swindon.

The bishop spoke of his “deep appreciation for Michael’s ministry which he has exercised so fruitfully”.

Church warden Mike Awre said: “We thank you for your ministry, your leadership and your commitment and your enthusiasm to do whatever is necessary to ensure the running of the church.”