Plea to keep retired clergyman rejected

A congregation’s hopes of keeping a popular clergyman in their parish have been dashed.

More than 80 parishioners signed an appeal urging church leaders to allow the Rev Howard Sutcliffe to remain as part-time vicar at Saddleworth Parish Church after he turns 70 next month.

But the church hierarchy has rejected the plea as against Church of England policy.

Mr Sutcliffe, who doesn’t receive payment, will have to leave the vicarage where he has lived with his wife Truda since 2009.

Mr Sutcliffe has declined to comment on his departure.

In their letter to church authorities, parishioners said: “There are many members of the congregations gravely concerned regarding the treatment of our retiring priest who we hold in high regard.

“His contribution is considerable. If there was a successor in waiting to fill Howard’s post, then naturally he would vacate the vicarage and stand aside. There is no indication that a successor will be available for some time.

“Howard has indicated his willingness to have permission to officiate, a wish that large numbers of his congregations wholeheartedly support.”

It is understood the Sutcliffes will be moving to a cottage in Diggle.