A DEDICATED long-serving vicar is set to retire after serving the people of Darwen for 16 years.

Reverend Les Collinson will leave St Barnabas CE Church in Watery Lane on Monday.

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Residents, councillors and churchgoers have paid tribute to his time at the church including staff at St Barnabas CE Primary School and churchwardens.

Pupils from St Barnabas sung for Rev Collinson in his final service on Sunday and deputy headteacher Becky Ham said it was only right that the children gave him the send-off he deserved.

She said: “The children performed in a service at the church which was a perfect way to say goodbye to Rev Les who always made us laugh.

“He is a brilliant man who has a great sense of humour.

“He’s been such an asset to our school, the church and the community.

“He has done a lot with the children over the years such as being at our harvest and Easter festivals.

“The kids always enjoyed him playing guitar as well, he is well known for that.

“He is always so kind to everyone and I know that the children will miss him very much.”

The pupils and choir, who take part in special services at the church for harvest, advent and Easter at the church, have also arranged a final farewell to Rev Collinson next week.

Howard Brown, a churchwarden who has known Rev Collinson for many years, said that he did a lot for the church including getting the inside reordered.

He said: “Les is a great friend of mine and also has been to the church.

“During his time he has managed to get the inside of the church reordered and it now looks stunning with lovely red carpets and two classrooms for children.

“He is an open and dedicated man and will really be missed at church.”

Cllr John East, representative for the Whitehall ward, said that Rev Collinson’s quirky services will always been remembered in the area.

He said: “Rev Les will be missed in the parish and the local community.

“He was a little unconventional and introduced Christian Rock into St Barnabas services.

“The whole Whitehall and Darwen community in wish him a happy retirement.”