THE vicar of the parish of Braddan, Reverend Canon Philip Frear, has announced his retirement.

He will leave the parish at the end of April but will still continue in his role as hospital chaplain which he has held since 1998.

Canon Frear moved to the Island in 1995, from Bristol, to serve in the Diocese of Sodor and Man.

His service as chaplain to Noble's Hospital was recognised in October 2004 and he was appointed to the seat of the Canon of Maughold in the cathedral and chapter in October 2004.

Commenting on Canon Frear's retirement Bishop Robert Paterson said: "The Diocese is enormously grateful to Philip for his years of faithful service to Braddan, the cathedral and to Noble's Hospital.

"I am pleased that he will continue to serve the cathedral and as Anglican chaplain to Noble's."