A BISHOP has paid tribute to the retiring Archdeacon of Richmond, the Venerable Ken Good, who is retiring in July.

The Right Reverend John Packer, Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, said Mr Good had proved himself a friend and advisor to parishes.

He said: "He has listened to them, supported them and given them confidence at a time of change.

"His practical wisdom and generosity of spirit will be very much missed by us all."

The diocese is planning an official retirement celebration, to be announced later this year.

Mr Good was ordained in 1967 and spent much of his ministry as a chaplain to the Mission to Seafarers, before working as a parish priest in the York diocese.

He has been Archdeacon of Rchmond for 13 years.