Thousands gather to say farewell to Bishop Michael

More than a thousand people turned out to say farewell to Bishop Michael and his wife, Esther, in a moving service at Exeter Cathedral.

Bishop Michael has retired as Bishop of Exeter after 13 years in the role.

In his sermon, he said he wasn't very good at goodbyes but this time he was letting go not just of his role as Bishop but of his 40 years of ministry.

He said he had been forced to ask himself: "What are the things that really matter, and why? In one sense it has posed that sharp question – what is true and real in your life, Michael?"

Churches across Devon have collected donations to give Bishop Michael and Esther a well deserved holiday to a Scottish island, shortly after they leave Devon. They are settling in Sussex.

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Plymouth, Christopher Budd, was one of those who paid tribute to Bishop Michael's "enormous commitment" to the people of Devon. The service was attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Sir Eric Dancer, other faith leaders and representatives from the twin diocese of Bayeux Lisieux in France.

Bishop Michael spoke afterwards of the tremendous love he has for Devon and its people. "These have been some of the most special years of my life," he said.