IT'S all change this week as the Rector of Kilve, Rev Andrew Stevens, leaves the village bound for retirement after 38 years in the ministry.

With Mr Stevens' departure following his retirement at the end of May, the six parishes of the benefice of Quantoxhead are merging with neighbouring benefice of Stogursey and Fiddington to form the new Quantock Coast benefice.

The new benefice will come under the Rev Philip Rahilly at Stogursey.

Mr Stevens, who has spent 13 years at Kilve, said: "It's been a joyful time.

"The support I've had from my colleagues, clergy, lay readers, church wardens and members of the congregation has been magnificent."

See this week's County Gazette for more.