A COLOURFUL cleric known affectionately as the “Pink Vicar” is swapping one New Forest church for another.

The Rev Rachel Noel, who has been the assistant curate of the Avon Valley Partnership for four years, is moving to St Mark’s Church in Pennington.

She has already held her final service at St Mary’s Church, Fordingbridge.

Rachel, whose brightly-coloured hair makes her a distinctive figure, said: “I’m excited to be moving to Pennington, although sad to be saying farewell to Fordingbridge.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know and love the people of Pennington and Lymington.”

Part of Rachel’s work in Fordingbridge has raised vital cash for Toilet Twinning, which is striving to help the 2.5 billion people worldwide who lack decent sanitation.

Former Fordingbridge mayor Malcolm Connolly said: “We are very glad for all that Rachel has contributed to our community.

“Her colourful, creative, presence and enthusiasm will be missed, however we wish Rachel continued success and joy in her new appointment.”

Rachel will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge at St Mark’s Church in Pennington on June.

A church spokesman said: “We’re looking forward to Rachel bringing some more colour and creativity to our team, our church and our community.”

The Bishop of Southampton, the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, added: “She brings energy, creativity and a wonderful personal warmth to everything she does.

“Rachel will be a gift to the people and communities of Pennington.”