A large congregation attended a farewell service for the Rev Canon Sally Theakston, who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham and District team rector.

Eastern Daily Press: The Rev Sally Theakston who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with her husband Michael and members of the congregation. Picture: Doug SpeedThe Rev Sally Theakston who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with her husband Michael and members of the congregation. Picture: Doug Speed (Image: Archant)

Family, people from across the benefice, friendship colleagues from Denmark and local dignitaries were at the service.

Mrs Theakston and her husband Michael were presented with gifts including a commissioned water colour picture, showing the eight churches she has served and been responsible for.

Eastern Daily Press: The Rev Sally Theakston, centre, who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with Jacob D Krogh Rasmussen from the Deanery of Hobro-Mariager, Denmark (left) and the Rev Gill Wells, team vicar for Shipdham. Picture; Doug SpeedThe Rev Sally Theakston, centre, who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with Jacob D Krogh Rasmussen from the Deanery of Hobro-Mariager, Denmark (left) and the Rev Gill Wells, team vicar for Shipdham. Picture; Doug Speed (Image: Archant)

They cut a decorated cake, made by Beverly Burton, before leaving the church, hand in hand for pastures new.

The day finished with a leaving party at Swanton Morley Village Hall

Eastern Daily Press: The Rev Sally Theakston, centre, who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with her husband Michael. Picture; Doug SpeedThe Rev Sally Theakston, centre, who is leaving after 10 years as Dereham rector. She is pictured at her farewell service with her husband Michael. Picture; Doug Speed (Image: Archant)

Mrs Theakston will continue to work in the Diocese of Norwich as assistant director of ordinands.

Evelyn Speed, from St Nicholas church. said: "They will be greatly missed by all areas of life in Dereham and surrounding villages to which they have contributed so much time and energy."