A MUCH loved and respected member of the community in Tavistock is soon to embark on a new and exciting challenge.

The Rev Michael Brierley, priest-in-charge of Tavistock and Gulworthy, has been a pillar of the community for seven years.

But in March, he will take on a whole new role as precentor at Worcester Cathedral, which involves directing and organising the worshipping life of the cathedral, and sharing in the pastoral care of the cathedral community.

Michael began his pastoral life as an assistant in North Dorset parishes, and was then a chaplain to the bishop in Oxford.

'I did that for five years, and by then was itching to get back to parish life, so I came to Tavistock in 2007,' said Michael.

­'I've always felt immensely blessed and privileged to have been parish priest here.

'I love the town and its moorland setting — I think it's just the right size — large enough for there to be plenty going on, but not so large as to lose its sense of community.

'And St Eustachius Church is wonderful. I've always regarded the parish priest as being there for the community as much as for churchpeople, and I've found the people of the town to be fantastic company, and I will miss them hugely. I will be enormously sorry to leave.'

When asked what memorable moments have stuck in his mind during his time in Tavistock, Michael said: 'I've always been very moved by the crowds at the Remembrance Service in Bedford Square and by services up at St Michael's Church on the top of Brentor.

'There have been some wonderful social occasions over the last seven years — riding on horseback as St Eustachius in the last carnival procession was particularly memorable!'

In March, Michael will be leaving Tavistock to take up his new role — which should also see him leading worship at the cathedral and caring for the cathedral community.

'It's an exciting and interesting job, which will hopefully stretch and challenge me in new ways,' added Michael.

The Bishop of Worcester, the Right Rev Dr John Inge, said: 'I am delighted about the appointment of Michael Brierley. He has just the right gifts to be a precentor – and many more besides.

'He will enrich the life and ministry of the cathedral greatly, as he will the whole diocese. I look forward very much to working with him and pray that his ministry among us will be richly blessed.'

The Dean of Worcester, the Very Rev Peter Atkinson, said: 'Michael is a person of great ability in many fields, whom we will warmly welcome into the community of Worcester Cathedral.'

Churchwardens of Tavistock Piers O'Neill and Ian Smith both said they are sorry to be losing Michael, who made a 'tremendous contribution' to the church and community in Tavistock.

Michael's 'leaving' service will be at 6pm on Sunday, March 2.

He said: 'Anyone in the town who would like to come is warmly invited. That morning, there's an opportunity for any children who've been thinking of getting baptised, to be baptised — any parents of such children should just get in touch with me.

'My final service will be on Ash Wednesday, March 5, when we start the journey of Lent  —  a journey which will lead me in a different direction, but we'll have started the journey together. Tavistock, Gulworthy and Brentor will always have a very special place in my heart.'

Until Michael's replacement is found, the church's team of lay readers and assistant clergy will provide services and care.