THE congregation at Warndon Village church held a special lunch to mark the retirement of two members of staff.

Peter Barham, who has been the associate pastor at Woodgreen Evangelical Church for 18 years retired earlier this month.

At the lunch Mr Barham, who is a Worcester Warriors fan, was presented with a Worcester Warriors shirt with his name on the back as well as the number 18, recognising his number of years of service.

Richard Lacey, lead pastor of the church, said both served the church faithfully, during a period of growth for the church, including the running of two identical Sunday morning services last year.

He also wished his successor Andy Rees and Martyn Walley, who will also be taking on a new role at the church, well.