A REVEREND is returning to lead a service at a church where he served as its first minister almost three decades ago.

Rev Gerald Bowerman became the first minister for the Northgate United Reformed Church in Darlington when it was newly formed in 1975.

He ministered there for eight years before serving at churches around the country and taking a pastorate post at a French-speaking church in Millau, Southwest France.

Rev Bowerman will lead the Easter Sunday service from 10.45am, and there will be an opportunity for old friends to meet him and his wife, Anne, afterwards.