The Bishop of Hereford said goodbye today (Saturday).

The Rt Rev Richard Frith made his final public appearance at the farewell service at Hereford Cathedral this morning.

Well-wishers and supporters turned out to say thank-you to Bishop Richard and his wife Kay as they begin the next chapter of their life together.

Bishop Richard has held the post as 105th Bishop of Hereford for five years, helping the diocese to shift towards intentional intergenerational church.

During his five years in the diocese, he has encouraged and supported a number of projects to make creative new uses of church buildings.

Ahead of the farewell service Bishop Richard said: “I thank God for the people of this beautiful diocese. It has been a privilege being Bishop of Hereford over the past five years.

"I will continue to love and pray for the people and the area.

"I have found it hard to say goodbye, but I am reminded that my faith keeps me looking forward to the next chapter."

Speaking to others before the service of farewell, the Bishop of Ludlow, the Rt Rev Alistair Magowan said: “Kay and Richard have served the Diocese of Hereford for just over five years, during which time I have come to know them not just as colleagues but friends and family. I will greatly miss their good humour and warm nature.

Kay Frith, Bishop Richard’s wife, said: "Richard and I have had a wonderful time over the last five years, getting to know this beautiful area and the wonderful people. We are sad to leave our home, friends and colleagues who have felt like an extended family."

Hereford's new bishop will be Richard Jackson, currently Suffragan Bishop of Lewes in East Sussex.

Often seen astride his Harley Davidson motorcycle, he will take up his role in the new year and will be the 106th bishop of Hereford, a church position that dates back to 676.