ROMSEY Abbey has paid tribute to its Reverend David Potterton as he prepares to give his final service at the end of the month.

As the abbey gets ready to welcome its new vicar Thomas Wharton from his current church in West End, reverend Potterton will preach for the last time on July 29.

Now, the abbey has thanked the reverend for his work, in which the historic building and its congregation has been under his pastoral care while it remained without a vicar.

A statement from the abbey said: "Since his ordination in July 2015, David has been a colourful and inspirational assistant curate, introducing his new services and ways of worship to the parish, such as Lectio Divina – a reflective quiet service and SPACE – an evening prayer service.

"The Say One For Me campaign, which received recognition by both the Winchester Diocese and nationally by the Church of England, was initiated and developed by David."

The campaign offered people on the streets of Romsey and further afield the chance to have a prayer said on their behalf.

Ahead of David and his wife Ann, moving on to his new role in August as Priest in Charge of the Lyndhurst Benefice, all have been invited to his final service at 10am on July 29 in the abbey.

A hog roast in the South Garth will be held afterwards, for which tickets are required.

The abbey statement added: "We wish David and Ann every blessing as they start this next phase in David's ministry, but we especially thank them for their love and care of us here in Romsey."

As well as his work at the abbey, David has been involved with Romsey Abbey primary School, and is an avid supporter of youth work in the parish.