THE Rector of St Thomas’s Church in Salisbury is to step down from his role after ten years of service.

Revd David Linaker, who was previously vicar of Mere with West Knoyle and Maiden Bradley, became a priest in 1996.

Taking part in annual events over the last decade, such as the city’s Mayor Making, Remembrance Sunday, Rose Petal Sunday and the international pancake race, Mr Linaker has become a central figure in the community.

He said: “The highlight of my time has been developing a connection between the church and the city, especially the civic life and the business life of the city.

“It’s just been about hanging around in the right places and making friends with the institutions.

“I think it has really helped the city because people now see the church as a credible part of their life and it has given the city ownership of their parish church because that’s what St Thomas’s is – it was founded as the parish church in the 13th century.

“The role I felt I had was to reconnect all of that as I got the sense that’s what the city values.”

Last year, Mr Linaker led a project which transformed the entrance to the church by installing glass doors. It enables visitors to look inside the church once closed and also aims to make the church more welcoming.

“I am sad to go,” Mr Linaker said. “I’m also looking forward to starting new projects.

“I will be having a break from parish ministry and taking some time to develop new interests and see where my ministry takes me.

“The church wardens will be in charge in the interim – there is a really good ministry team at St Thomas’s and people will be well-cared for.”

Mr Linaker, who grew up on the Isle of Wight, will continue to be based in the city.

His last day as rector will be on Sunday, July 31 when a farewell service will take place at St Thomas’s at 10.15am.

On August 1, a six to nine month process will begin to appoint Mr Linaker’s replacement.