IT was the end of an era for Timperley Methodist Church, when, after a decade as minister, the Reverend Bruce Thompson gave his last service.

Rev Thompson is leaving Timperley, to become Superintendent Minister for Taunton in Summerset.

More than 300 people packed the church for his final service as minister.

Among the congregation were friends and colleagues past and present from across the church community.

Since arriving in Timperley more than 10 years ago, Rev Thompson has formed strong links across different faiths. Seeking to increase understanding between different religions in the area, he fostered ties with the Altrincham Muslim Association, as well as the Council of Christians and Jews.

Among his highlights, the Rev Thompson lists the live Christmas nativity, which was broadcast on ITV, and had estimated viewing figures of more than one million, as well as the relationship he has forged with the Kosovan refugees at Meadow Court, who he aided and supported when they first came to the area.

However, Rev Thompson told SAM that it was seeing people grow as individuals which had really been the highlight and he will be sorry to leave.

He said: "We will be very sad to leave Timperley. It is a great place to live and we have made it our home. Through the years we have made many friends and we will be sorry to say goodbye."

Rev Thompson will be succeeded by Rev David Hardman, who will be moving in with his family in August.