A vicar who served the Beddington community for more than 21 years has retired.

The Rev Andrew Roland, who turned 70 on April 23, has stepped down from his role at the All Saints Church in Beddington Corner.

Mr Roland, who came to the church in January 1994, said he and his wife Linda would be moving to Earls Court.

He said: “So many people I have journeyed with. I want to thank everyone, whether churchgoers or not, for what you do to make Hackbridge and Beddington Corner an accepting and welcoming place.

“I believe I have been able to help some people.

“If I have disappointed or let down others, I am sorry.

“I hope that Hackbridge will become a more vibrant community with the development going ahead on the Felnex site.

“I hope that All Saints will discover that the faith and friendliness of the congregation will lead to growth and a sense of excitement about the future.

“When I was 18, I reckoned that the most important thing in life is to grow in love and prayer.

“I have not got beyond that, and I hope that both Linda and I will find Earls Court a true home, in which to do just that.”

During his time the church community fought against the threat to the old playground at Orchard Avenue, the closing of the railway bridges, and the 2008 Hackbridge Master Plan.

In 1997 a successful campaign led to BedZed being created.

Parishioner June Mount-steven said: “Andrew has been the mainstay of the Hackbridge Festival and the All Saints Day fireworks.

“He has worked with the primary schools, Hackbridge and Culvers House, speaking to classes and encouraging visits to the church.

“He visits many people and care homes, to give communion or encourage baptisms.

“He listens to people in times of trouble and he and Linda regularly open their door to provide support, share meals and conversation. They have been resilient in the face of difficulties.

“He will be greatly missed though perhaps most people won’t realise how much, until he has gone.”