NEVER mind time travelling, a Culcheth vicar has been travelling through boundaries as he bids farewell to the village.

After 11 years of service, The Rev Dr Chris Stafford, Rector of Newchurch and Christ Church Croft said goodbye to his parishioners.

And parishioners sent him off with presents which reflected his passion for Doctor Who, like Tardis mugs and a scarf worn by Tom Baker, who played the fourth Doctor.

He is leaving to take up a new position as Team Vicar at All Saints Newton-Le-Willows and school minister for the Newton team.

He said: “I am excited at the challenge. Newton is a very different experience. We have made lots of friendships and are very sorry to be leaving.”

As well as visits from members of the community before his final service last month, a special farewell service and presentation was held for Dr Stafford in the Parish Hall in Culcheth.