Revd Harry Place, from Dorchester, has taken up a new role in Wales

Revd Harry Place bid farewell to the congregation of Dorchester Baptist Church at a service on Sunday, December 30.

He has taken up a pastorate at Magor Baptist Church in Caldecott, where he has moved with his family.

Amanda Rhodes, associate minister of Dorchester Baptist Church, said: "It's hugely sad for us to say goodbye to Harry and Alice. They have been with us for 10 years. They are much loved by members of the church and we feel they have had a huge impact here at the baptist church as well as in the wider community. They have done some great things and have helped build relationships with other churches and organisations. It will be a huge loss for us."

She added that Revd Place's family are based in South Wales and his return has been 'a long time coming'.

In a bid to wish Revd Place luck on his new appointment around 50 to 60 church members travelled from Dorchester to Magor Baptist Church in February and attended his induction service.

Revd Rhodes said: "It was a very special service. Magor Baptist Church made us all feel incredibly welcome, we feel we're leaving him in good hands.

"People will often go to an induction service for a minister, particularly if they're loved like part of the family. Our church members built an incredibly strong friendship with Harry and Alice over the last 10 years."

According to Revd Rhodes, the church will be starting to look for a new minister.

She added: "We will be holding a vision day on Saturday, March 2, where we will listen to God and each other to get a feel for the church's vision for the next few years. We will be thinking about who is the right person to take us on to our next stage as a church."