A vicar has announced he is retiring after 14 years of serving Halstead’s congregation.

The Rev John Blore, 65, intends to step down as vicar at St Andrew’s Church in Parsonage Street, at Christmas after spending almost 40 years as a minister.

Mr Blore, who grew up in Southend, came to the town 14 years ago after spending time as a curate in Waltham Abbey and East Ham.

He started his training to join the church at university and said he felt a calling to become a priest from a very young age.

He has only spent one year outside of the church since his training after he was encouraged to spend some time as a labourer in a steel company in Sheffield.

He said: “I think Halstead is certainly a very happy place as it has a lot of community spirit.

“It is a lovely attractive town and I shall miss it very much."

See this week's Halstead Gazette - out tomorrow - for the full story.