BROMYARD'S long-serving vicar was showered with gifts when he gave his final service after 28 years.

Rev. Walter Gould and his wife Hazel are heading for retirement after a lifetime of dedication to the north Herefordshire community.

And people came out in force to say goodbye.

Among the presents they received were an inscribed millennium plate, a TV and video, paintings of local churches and an aerial photograph of St Peter's.

They were also handed vouchers worth £1,500, which they intend to spend on a new green house.

"A garden seat for two will compliment the gift of a beautifully decorated spade and fork for work and relaxation in the garden," said Rev. Gould.

"It was a most memorable day for us, but inevitably also a highly emotional and sad one, for it meant saying goodbye to many friends with whom we had lived for a very long time.

"We would like to express our appreciation to all those who contributed so generously to my retirement gifts," he added.