A church minister has announced that he will leave his congregation after almost a decade.

Loughton Methodist Church leader Reverend Tony Morling will leave the town this summer to move back to Jersey.

Mr Morling started at the High Road church in 2004, although has now decided that it is time for him to return to his home.

Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said that his decision is a real loss for the town, but wished him well.

She said: "Rev Morling has been a rock for the Methodist Church throughout his time in Loughton and I know I speak for many people in the town when I say that we wish him all the very best for the future.

“His work has gone beyond the walls of Loughton Methodist Church, not least with his involvement with Churches Together in Loughton.

“His contribution to Loughton life will be sorely missed.”