THE CATHOLIC parish in Weymouth bade a fond farewell to its deacon.

A retirement party was held for deacon Wilfred Westlake MBE at the parish of Our Lady Star of the Sea to thank him for all his hard work in Weymouth and Portland.

The deacon was presented with a cake which he cut using his Master at Arms Naval sword.

Esmee Nicholls from the parish said he had also given up many hours to work with the prison service.

She said: “Thank you Deacon Wilf for all your help in the parish, and, to all who met you, you were a true gentleman in mind and spirit and we will miss you.”