A CANVEY vicar is off to pastures new after nearly five years on the island.

Reverend Peter Mallinson, and his wife Fiona, is today moving to the Chichester Diocese to look after four congregations and their medieval churches; St Botolph's in Hardham, which is known as one of the 1,000 best churches in England, St John's Evangelist in Bury, St Giles in Coldwaltham and St Nicholas in Houghton.

Mr Mallinson, who was responsible for St Anne's Church, St Katherine's Church, and who also played a part at St Nicholas Church, said: "I wasn't looking to move but I have been exploring rural ministries; the Bishop of Bradwell John Wraw had previously asked me to look at something rural but it wasn't the right fit.

"But I then went and took an interview for this job and it felt absolutely right and they offered me the position within an hour of the interview finishing.

"I started in medieval churches; I was born in St Albans and as I opened my bedroom windows I could see St Albans Cathedral and by the age of 16 I was a verger there.

"So it's a bit like going home."

Although Mr Mallinson is excited about the move and the challenges up ahead he faces he is sad to leave Canvey and its residents behind.

He said: "I'm going to really miss the people.

"I will miss the ministry team too; we work as a team here.

"There's a real community spirit on Canvey.

"But it feels right to go and be with these people there and to affirm the mission they are already doing.

"I don't think they even know they are doing it; they have people doing things for the community, there is the post office and the schools, and people looking after each other.

"I hope to do more outreach into there community as well.

"People are lovely here and they are lovely there."

During his last service on Sunday, Mr Mallinson was praised by the dozens of people who packed into the church to say goodbye to him.

He said: ""They presented me with a wonderful service and gave us a beautiful cut glass bowl.

"It was amazing and so special; the church was packed and people have been surprising me all week."

He added: "It's a bittersweet move; bitter because we are leaving and sweet because we feel this is God's call."