The former Team Rector of Dorchester and The Winterbournes has thanked the community for a ‘wonderful’ send-off.

A service to conclude the ministry of Thomas Woodhouse as Team Rector of Dorchester and The Winterbournes was held at St Mary’s Church on Saturday, September14.

He leaves the benefice for London where he will become Chaplain of the Queen’s Chapel of the Savoy.

Speaking ahead of his installation, Revd Woodhouse said: “Thank you for giving us such a wonderful send off on Saturday, September 14.

“We found the service uplifting and full of hope.

“We would like to thank you for the generous gift you gave us at the conclusion of my ministry in Dorchester and The Winterbournes.

“I am now preparing for my installation on Monday, September 30, which is the same day that Revd Teresa Stewart-Sykes begins her new ministry in Oxfordshire.

“I have no doubt you will keep us all in your prayers as we settle into our new ministry.”

Revd Woodhouse joined the Dorchester and Winterbournes team ministry having previously served in Wootton Bassett between 2005 and 2014.

His move will also see him become a Deputy-Priest-in-Ordinary and a Canon of the Chapels Royal, supporting the chapel’s Sub-Dean.