The much-loved vicar of Bolton has announced his retirement following a career spanning nearly 40 years.

Canon Dr Chris Bracegirdle has been vicar of Bolton for five years, and in that time has led his congregation and the wider community through some hugely significant events.

By the time he steps away on April 30 next year he will be saying goodbye to a career in which he was ordained for 38 years, and much of that time he has been spent in and around the borough.

He is also Honorary Canon of Manchester Cathedral.

He said: “We have to retire when we get to 70. I’m not 70 yet, but I’ve always wanted to retire when I’m in good health and I still have something to offer.

“I have a lot of friends in the clergy who are a similar age who are retiring so I thought the time is right.”

READ MORE: "Bolton welcome" as dozens attend service for town's new vicar

Formerly a teacher, Canon Bracegirdle trained in Cambridge at Ridley Hall, starting in 1982 and finishing when he was ordained in 1985.

"I had intended that teaching would be my life's work," he said.

"As a Christian, I would say that it was God's call on my life to move in a different direction that brought about the change. 

"This wasn't a resounding voice from heaven, but really came through the prompting of many people who knew me. 

The Bolton News: Canon Chris Bracegirdle cuts a celebratory cake at his induction service in 2018Canon Chris Bracegirdle cuts a celebratory cake at his induction service in 2018 (Image: Newsquest)

"I was reluctant to go forward as I really wanted to teach, but having offered myself and been recommended for training, that was it.

"I have never once regretted the decision - and schools have continued to feature significantly throughout my ministry."

Canon Bracegirdle says that his time in Bolton brought him “a lot of great memories”.

“I’ve been very fortunate that every parish I’ve been in I’ve enjoyed but Bolton has been up there,” he added.

“The 150-year anniversary of the consecration of Bolton parish church was a highlight.

“Another has been Covid. Although not of us wanted it, of course, it has been a real privilege to help lead the congregation and the wider community through very difficult times.

“Another thing I’ll remember, although very sad, was the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh and the Queen, but also the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

READ MORE: Special service to mark Bolton Parish Church's 150 anniversary of its consecration

“And just the day-to-day life. Meeting wonderful people from across the faith range. I’ll take happy memories of them with me.”

Canon Bracegirdle’s life of service to the church and the community is commendable and his message to those he served in that time is a simple but heartfelt one.

“My overriding message is - thank you.

“People think we are here in the service of others – and we are – but I have received so much back. I have so many memories, so thank you.”

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.