A farewell service has been held this weekend for the Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Paul Butler who retires next month after ten years in the role.

The service, which was attended by church and civic leaders and open to the public, took place at Durham Cathedral on Saturday ( January 27) at 4.30pm.

Bishop Paul will formally retire on February 29.The Northern Echo: Farewell Service is held at Durham Cathedral this evening (SAT) for the Bishop of Durham, the Right

Reflecting on his time as Bishop, Bishop Paul said: “It has been a huge privilege and honour to serve all the people of Durham Diocese for 10 years. Being called here was an unexpected, and challenging, step.

"Rosemary and I have loved the variety, beauty and challenges of this diverse Diocese. It is my hope and prayer that my ministry has helped God’s church truly be a blessing to our communities for the transformation of all from the Tyne to the Tees and the Dales to the Sea.

“When we move away, we will miss the people and the places deeply. Yet we know the Diocese will be in good hands and that God will uphold and guide for all that lies ahead.”The Northern Echo: Farewell Service is held at Durham Cathedral this evening (SAT) for the Bishop of Durham, the Right

The Farewell Service was introduced by the Dean of Durham, the Very Reverend Dr Philip Plyming.

Leading the Diocese of Durham until Bishop Paul’s successor is appointed will be the Bishop of Jarrow, the Right Reverend Sarah Clark.

Bishop Sarah said: “Bishop Paul will be very missed across the whole Diocese, but we will be so thankful for his wise and challenging strategic leadership, prayerful care and utter commitment to us since coming to our Diocese in 2014.The Northern Echo: Farewell Service is held at Durham Cathedral this evening (SAT) for the Bishop of Durham, the Right

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The Northern Echo: A Farewell Service is held at Durham Cathedral this evening (SAT) for the Bishop of Durham, the

"As our Bishop he has enabled us to grow in boldness and imagination in our response to the opportunities and challenges that we encounter as we seek to be faithful disciples of Jesus. We look to the future thankfully and hopefully from a firm foundation.

“Bishop Paul has been a passionate advocate for the North East, both at a local and national level, championing education, our young people and the poorest in our society, and the rights of refugees and asylum seekers who come to this country seeking a better and safer life. He has been a voice for those who struggle to get heard.

“Our prayers and love will go with Paul and Rosemary as they prepare to enter the next chapter of their lives and once the end of February arrives, we will wish them well. I am sure God has plans and purposes for them both as they enter their retirement together.”