AFTER seven years as rector of St Michael & All Angels’ Church, Reverend Barry Blackford is leaving Melksham to start his retirement.
Reverend Blackford’s last service at the church will be the morning of Sunday 29th September, for Michaelmas Day.
Speaking to Melksham News, he said, “It’s been an interesting time, there have been good times and bad times, and I’ve seen a lot of change in the town – there is a much more positive feel around the town since I first came here. And within the church we’ve had people come and go – it’s been a real time of change in the church.
“I’m very sad to go – but the body tells you when it’s had enough, plus there are other things that I want to be doing, which I wouldn’t be able to do if I stayed on as parish priest. It’s a real mixture of feelings – I’m really going to miss the people here, I’ve made some very good friends.”
Barry and his wife Sheena will be moving back to Laverstock, a village near Salisbury, where they have a house. The couple intend to spend more time with family who live nearby and travel more.
Rev Blackford said, “Before I officially retire, I will be travelling to Sudan to spend nine days in the diocese of Kadugli, which the deanery has a link with – we are going over to do some teaching at their clergy conference.
“I’ve also got two trips to Israel planned in the new year. I’m going over in January with my wife, mainly to refresh my memory of the place – I was last there 40 years ago. And in March I am leading a pilgrimage.”
As a parting message to the Melksham community, he said, “I came here thinking I was bringing a message of hope for the town, but actually I am leaving here full of hope for Melksham.
“The people of Melksham have got great potential, and with the new people coming in, I think that’s going to add to the town.”
