A much-loved vicar and science fiction expert has said goodbye to Builth Wells at a memorable occasion held in his honour on Palm Sunday.

After seven years in the town, Father Neil Hook held his final service at St Mary’s Church and was given a farewell party attended by several parishioners and friends.

It’s all change for Fr Hook and his family as they leave for Pembrokeshire and the Diocese of St David, where he has been appointed Priest in Charge of Haverfordwest, taking up the post from May 13.

At a surprise lunch given in his honour after he lead a procession through Builth Wells, followed by a Eucharist service, Fr Neil was presented with a variety of gifts, including a stole for him to wear at his new appointment.

A new vicar to replace Fr Neil has yet to be appointed.