The Bishop of Blackburn has accepted my formal resignation from the office of Incumbent of the United Benefice of St John’s, Higham and St Anne’s, Fence, and also from the office of Area Dean of Pendle. I approach my 70th birthday, the time has come for me to step down from stipendiary ministry and retire.

My final Sunday leading services in the benefice will be Sunday 1st November, and my official retirement will take effect on Tuesday 3rd November.

Serving the communities of Higham and Fence has been a profound privilege and an immense joy. I am deeply grateful for your prayers, fellowship, and unwavering support over the years. Together, we have shared in the joys and challenges of parish life, and I will miss you all greatly.

Whilst this marks the end of my time as your Vicar, it is not the end of my ministry. In retirement, I hope to continue serving the wider diocese through the Bishop’s permission to officiate (PTO) and interim ministry, helping other parishes navigate seasons of vacancy and change.

Our churchwardens will work closely with the Archdeacon of Blackburn and the leadership team of the Pendle Deanery to prepare for the upcoming interregnum. I have every confidence that they will guide both St John’s and St Anne’s smoothly into this next chapter.

Please pray for the churchwardens and the Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) in the coming weeks, and rest assured that you will all remain closely in my prayers as we prepare for this transition.

With every blessing, Lesley x