Rev Judith Abbott’s surprise announcement that she is to step down in November

Axminster’s team vicar has announced her resignation.

The Rev Judith Abbott has told parishioners she plans to move into some other kind of ministry and spend more time with her family.

Writing in the latest parish magazine she said: “I have some news that may now come as a surprise to you.

“You might remember that I came to the Axminster Team in February 2006 with a licence from Bishop Michael for five years.

“I have now been here for more than six years and I have loved working with everybody in the villages and Axminster and living in Chardstock.

“In that time I have also been deeply blessed in my marriage to Roger and in the expansion of our combined families.

“It has been becoming increasingly clear that I have now given all I can to the Axe Valley Mission Community and after discussions with Bishop Bob and Archdeacon Christopher I recognise that the time has come for me to move into some other kind of ministry, in which I will also have more time for my family.

“So now, with much sadness at the prospect of moving away I announce my resignation.”

Mrs Abbott added that she would remain at her post for a further three months. Sunday November 25 would be her last day as team vicar.,

After that she said she and her husband would continue to live in Chardstock until their house was sold.

Axminster Team Rector, Rev John Streeting, said Mrs Abbott’s resignation had come as a surprise and he praised her contribution to the mission community.

He added: “She will be missed by many people.”