FARNWORTH'S first rural dean Canon Philip Wrigley has died aged 88.

The former Vicar of Farnworth and Kearsley, who served the local community for more than 15 years at St Johns CE Church, died peacefully in his sleep.

Canon Wrigley left the town in 1969 with glowing tributes for his efforts in bringing 'life and energy' to the church.

He was well known for his work with youth organisations and his work dates back as far as 1934 when he started his career as curate at the Farnworth church.

He left for Worcestershire when he was 61 after a number of different appointments across the region and later moved to Herefordshire where he died.

A funeral service will be held on Monday (Nov 11) at St Peter's Church, Bromyard.

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