ILL-health is forcing the Anglican Rector and Rural Dean of Leominster, the Reverend Prebendary Peter Swain, to step down.

Mr Swain, who entered the ministry following a career in agriculture, is to take early retirement at the end of this month after seven years in his post.

The energetic cleric abseiled from the Priory Church tower and staged a long run around local parish churches to boost the town's link with Tengeru, Tanzania.

But recently, both he and his wife, Pauline, have suffered health problems.

This week, the rector's colleagues in the Leominster Team Ministry paid tribute to his "unique and positive contribution".

"Peter's interests and talents have been used creatively," said team vicar The Rev Mark Townsend.

"Many will remember his help, support and, above all, understanding of the issues facing the farming community generally and particularly during the Foot and Mouth crisis.

"And not many Rural Deans have such an intimate knowledge of the area as Peter gained when he ran all the way round the deanery - a marathon, if ever there was one!

"Many people will remember Peter and Pauline with tremendous gratitude for their kindnesses and their genuine care and concern for people - Pauline's Gentle Thoughts (column in the parish magazine) have been appreciated greatly.

"It is a cause of deep sadness that Peter and Pauline leave us, they will be greatly missed."

Parishioners have launched a presentation fund.

Details are available at the church office in the Forbury Chapel.