A VICAR is retiring after almost two “wonderful” decades serving his community.

Reverend Martin Miller, vicar at St Michael’s Church in Newhaven, will step down at the beginning of September.

Rev Miller, a “well-known” face in the town, has led the regular civic services such as the Brazen Memorial, Dieppe Raid, Remembrance Sunday and mayor’s carol services for the past 17 years.

The 66-year-old has been a vicar for 25 years and prior to his time in Sussex he served in Bermondsey in London.

He and his wife Lucy were involved in setting up the Breakout drop-in centre in Newhaven’s town centre, and have seen many changes since 2005, with hundreds of children and their families attending Messy Church at St Michael’s over the years.

He most recently set up a team of volunteers to prepare bagel breakfasts for pupils at Harbour School where he was a governor.

Reflecting on his time in Newhaven, Rev Miller said it had been a “privilege” to serve the town and said the creation of the Breakout centre and the bagel breakfasts were the achievements he is most proud of.

“It has been such a privilege to serve God for 17 years here in Newhaven, and to be part of so many people’s lives over that time,” he said.

“It was particularly wonderful to be part of the 900th anniversary celebrations of St Michael’s over the last two years.”

Rev Miller said it was the “right time” for him to retire and that he will continue to serve the community in other ways.

“We still want to go on serving the community in our retirement,” he said.

“I’d like to pass on the parish to someone with fresh energy and new ideas.

“We have loved living in Newhaven and the community has so much going for it.

“And we’re very thankful to all the individuals who have supported us in our shared journey.

“And we wish everyone the very best.”

Rev Miller’s farewell service at St Michael’s Church will be at 10am on Sunday, September 4, and everyone is welcome to attend.