A FAREWELL tea party will be held today for a Hampshire vicar who has been the spiritual leader of a community for eight years.

The Rev Peter Gilks has been in charge of the Anglican parishes of Ampfield, Chilworth and North Baddesley since 2006 but will now be leaving to take up a new post in Andover.

Parishioners are invited to head to All Saints Church in North Baddesley for 4pm and bring and share their own cakes.

The Rev Gilks said of his departure and new post: “It’s been a happy time for me in Ampfield but I’m looking forward to new challenges and opportunities at the new parish in Andover.”

For more information about the tea party contact 023 8073 2993.