Cherry trees have been planted as a much-loved Bury reverend and former teacher has retired.

Rev Sue Wood, an Associate Minister, has marked her retirement with the planting of five cherry trees.

The trees aim to act as a symbol of her ongoing link with the churches as one was planted in Edenfield Parish, St Andrew’s, St Paul’s, Ramsbottom and St Philip’s, Stubbins and in her own garden.

Sue, who was a former primary school teacher has been remembered by her use of craft activities and storytelling to explain the Christian faith.

She has also been remembered for the many weddings, baptisms and funerals she conducted and for setting up Messy Church, for many families in the Ramsbottom and Edenfield area.

 Robert Ruston, a warden from the Team Churches, said: “The Ramsbottom and Edenfield Team churches marked the retirement of Rev Sue Wood, an Associate Minister with the Team, last Sunday with an Afternoon Tea at St Andrew’s Church in Ramsbottom.

“Prior to her ordination in 2010 Rev Sue Wood had been an active member of the congregation at St Andrew’s, so the Team felt it was appropriate for her retirement to be marked at the church.

“Earlier on Sunday, Sue had preached at a service for all the Team churches at St Andrew’s, with the service being led by a long-term friend of Sue’s, also a member at St Andrew’s Church, Neil Ashmall.

“Also taking part in the service were Church Wardens from the Team Churches and former St Andrew’s Vicar, Rev Ian Rogerson.”

Sue was presented with the trees at the afternoon tea along with a number of other gifts on behalf of the congregations at the Team churches.  

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