AFTER more than ten years as Rector of Ashwater, Halwill, Beaworthy, Clawton and Tetcott with Luffincott, Rev Jane Lucas is to bid a fond farewell and step away from her role as priest in charge.

Rev Lucas was delighted to see a large turnout at her leaving ceremony, held on Ashwater village green on Sunday, May 26, providing her with an opportunity to thank those who have supported her during her time in the parish. She said: “We had a wonderful turnout on Ashwater village green for the leaving service, attended by more than 150 people from the Holsworthy Deanery plus family members from Derbyshire, Hertfordshire and North Devon.”

During the service a poem ‘Surrender’ by John Donne was read by Elizabeth Swan, the bible lesson was read by Terry Darby and the song ‘Hallelujah’ was sung by Barry Parsons as well as a few traditional hymns sung by the congregation. Dr Trevor May, reader in the benefice, also gave a eulogy which Rev Lucas said ‘we all enjoyed listening to’.

Luckily the rain stayed away until the service was over and those present had made their way to the parish hall for a luncheon provided by the parishes in the benefice — and the tables were laden with plenty of food for everyone.

Speaking about her time as priest in charge, Rev Lucas said there are many memories she will cherish of a very ‘unique’ area. She said: “Memories of the ten plus years in the area have been the people, families, schools, pre-schools, residential care homes, the Holsworthy market, Clawton Young Farmers’ Club and everyone with who I have had the privilege to minister to.

“This part of West Devon is unlike anywhere else in Devon, it is unique in its land and people and is special to me.”

Over the years Rev Lucas has become acquainted with the intricacies of church maintenance and is pleased so much progress has been made in the area: “My knowledge of church buildings has vastly increased with the five building projects completed in this time, my grateful thanks to the small committees that fund raised and project managed them alongside the architects and contractors. The church buildings are in a better state but with more to do!”

Rev Lucas expressed her thanks to all for their support over the years. She said: “I retire for a while to see more of my family and a new grandchild to Thorverton for a time with the hope of returning to North Devon next year. I thank everyone for their kindness to me during my husband’s illness and death, particularly this last year. Also the wonderful gifts given to me in retirement.”