The Bishop of Hereford makes his final public appearance this weekend before he retires at the end of November.

On Saturday, November 23, there will be a farewell service at Hereford Cathedral at 11am where well-wishers and supporters are expected to turn out to say thank you to Bishop Richard Frith and his wife Kay

During his five years in the diocese, he has encouraged and supported a number of projects, including supporting the growth of 'messy church' for children.

Ahead of the farewell service Bishop Richard said: "I thank God for the people of this beautiful diocese.

"It has been a privilege being Bishop of Hereford over the past five years. I will continue to love and pray for the people and the area.

"I have found it hard to say goodbye but I am reminded that my faith keeps me looking forward to the next chapter.

"I am planning to spend time with Kay and my family as well as seeking new opportunities to offer my skills and experience to further the Kingdom of God.

"Lastly thank you for the wonderful gifts and kind messages. They mean a great deal to Kay and me"

Bishop Richard is the 105th Bishop of Hereford and moved to the Diocese from Hull, where he was the Suffragan Bishop, in 2014. He will retire on November 30.

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Sam Pratley, Diocesan Secretary said: "I have spent nearly 10 months saying farewell to Bishop Richard which has become a bit of a joke between us.

"Now that we have finally reached November, it is with great sadness and surprise that I find I am saying a very real and final farewell.

"It has been an absolute pleasure working with Bishop Richard since my appointment a little over three years ago."

The next Bishop of Hereford was announced in September as the Rt Revd Richard Jackson, Bishop-designate of Hereford.