A CHURCH congregation has bid a fond farewell to a minister who has overseen the creation of many groups and services for the people of Radcliffe.

The Rev Nigel Adkinson, who has left Radcliffe United Reformed Church for pastures new, was responsible for the foundation of a community café to prevent social isolation and loneliness among older residents.

His parting coincided with the official closure of Stand United Reformed Church and joining together of both the Chapelfield and Radcliffe churches to form Stand and Radcliffe United Reformed Church (URC).

The historic Grade II listed Stand URC, in Stand Lane, Chapelfield, was put up for sale earlier this year at a guide price of £175,000.

The outgoing reverend said he was optimistic for the future of the united church.

Rev Adkinson said: "The formation of this new united church will give the congregation the momentum they need to take their mission forward in Radcliffe as well as maintaining their presence in Chapelfield.

"They are in a more consolidated place; they will be able to combine their leadership and operate out of one building rather than having to maintain two."

A special service was held last month to mark the departure of Rev Adkinson and his wife Liz. The couple have moved to Northampton to be nearer their daughter.

Rev Adkinson, who had been in post in Radcliffe for more than five years, said: "My highlight has been the willingness of the church to look to the wider needs of the community and seek to meet those.

"They have listened to people's stories, supported them and enabled them, if they so wish, to explore issues of faith."

Rev Adkinson says he will be exploring options within ministry in the East Midlands.

A message on the church Facebook page said: "We held a moving service of celebration and thanksgiving to mark the closure of Stand United Reformed Church and uniting of Radcliffe and Stand United Reformed Churches.

"The service was Nigel and Liz’s last in Radcliffe before they moved to be nearer to family and everyone was invited to a buffet served in the church hall, giving people time to chat with them and say their farewells.

"We send Liz and Nigel our best wishes and much love as they start the next chapter of their journey with God."

Stand and Radcliffe United Reformed Church will be supported by ministers within the Bury and Rochdale missional partnership and also representatives from North West Synod.

To mark the official joining of the churches, a new communion table and chairs will be dedicated by Rev Adkinson during a special service in December.