MORE than 130 church-goers and friends have celebrated the work of a clergyman who has stepped down from his role as rector for four churches to become a prison chaplain.

A service was held at St Mary's Church, Thirsk to mark the feast of Candlemas and honour the Reverend Richard Rowling ahead of his move to work at the category C HMP Northumberland, at Morpeth.

Over the past 12 years, Canon Rowling, who had previously served in Ingleby Greenhow, has performed roles as the Rural Dean of Mowbray Deanery, Archdeacon of Cleveland and Canon of York Minster as well as becoming the Archbishop of York's advisor on rural affairs.

Alongside those duties and leading congregations at St Mary's, St Leonard's, Sandhutton, St Wilfrid's, South Kilvington and St Lawrence's, Carlton Miniott , he has helped steer the Thirsk Regeneration Initiative and education bodies.

Leading figures in the town said he had become known as a "moderate voice of reason", quietly campaigning on issues such as parking restrictions in Kirkgate.

Canon Rowling said: "It will be a big wrench for me and my family to leave the Thirsk Benefice as we have really enjoyed our time here. We are grateful for all the kindness and support we have received."

Thirsk councillor Gareth Dadd said: "Richard has served with distinction, both in his role in religious matters and as an effective partner in the community.

"He has always been the eyes and ears for us all and someone who his flock and the wider community could always turn to."