A FOND farewell was said to Prebendary John Rawlings, vicar of Tavistock, during a special service and party held in the town last Thursday evening. Mr Rawlings has now taken up his new position as Archdeacon of Totnes ? a promotion within the church which was announced last autumn. Around 400 people attended the service of thanksgiving in St Eustachius Church. Mr Rawlings paid tribute to Pearce Richards on his retirement as director of music after 40 years of dedicated service, and to the parishes, schools and organisations around Tavistock for which he and his wife, Janette, held such great affection. After the service, town crier Bob Rose welcomed guests to a farewell party held in the town hall, where they enjoyed a splendid buffet prepared by churchwarden Lesley Morris and ladies of Tavistock and Gulworthy parishes. The special celebration cake was made by Hilary Palmer. Tributes to Mr and Mrs Rawlings were made by representatives of the parishes and they were presented with gifts including an engraved jug, a special apple tree from Gulworthy, an engraved vase ? and a substantial cheque for £1,664. A farewell toast was made by the mayor of Tavistock, Cllr Jenny Metcalf. John Rawlings became vicar of Tavistock 14 years ago. His new title will be The Venerable John Rawlings, Archdeacon of Totnes ? in his new role he will be responsible for 120 churches and 75 clergy in an area from Hatherleigh to the South Hams and Torbay. He and his wife will live in Bovey Tracey. A new vicar is not expected to be appointed in Tavistock for a period of some months.