PARISHIONERS turned out in force to wish a fond farewell to their priest - who was retiring after 27 years in the Washburn Valley.

Canon David Creaser, vicar of Weston with Denton and priest in charge of Farnley, Fewston with Blubberhouses and Leathley, was given a fond send-off at a special ceremony at St Helen's Church in Denton.

Villagers, who had spent several weeks preparing for the service, presented Canon Creaser and his wife, Mary, with a cheque for £1,900 and a £90 book token.

Canon Creaser, who is retiring with his wife to Austwick, near Settle, said: "I don't really want to go, but I know it is time for someone younger to take over. Six churches is a lot."

Canon Creaser first came to the area in 1967, left in 1974 for a new parish in Bradford, but returned 21 years ago.

A keen reader and collector of books, Mr Creaser is looking forward to devoting more time to his hobbies during his retirement.

He added: "I am very sad to say goodbye.

"I am obviously very atta-ched to the area."