FOR once the vicar was at a loss for words — in her own church! The Rev Marilyn Elliott from Stoke Climsland was silenced by a surprise bouquet from her grateful parishioners. 

The Rev Elliott, who is moving on from Stoke Climsland and Linkinhorne parish after four years as curate, said: 'I had no idea this was taking place! It's been an absolute pleasure to work in this community and I take many happy memories with me to my new parish of Lanreath and Pelynt.'

Jan Parsons, who runs the weekly Whizzkids on Wednesdays playgroup at the church, said: 'Our Marilyn has been inspirational. She is much loved and has been a friend and counsellor to us all.'

Tesco representative Alan Woollcombe, who presented the bouquet to Marilyn who was chosen as one of the store's 'community champions' said: 'Marilyn has been very much at the heart of the parish and will be a very hard act to follow. She will be much missed.' Picture by Sean Hernon