Saying farewell after 12 years in the heart of town

The Reverend Canon Kevin Partington has become a hugely respected figure in the community since taking over the stewardship of the Minster in 2003.

Kevin, who is going on 65, officially leaves his ministry on September 30 but will say his formal goodbyes to the parish at the end of his final service on October 4.

He described the end of his full-time work in the town as “bittersweet”

“I’ve had a great time in Dewsbury,” he told the Reporter. “I’m hoping my last service is not going to be too sad but I’m a bit of a wuss when it comes to ‘goodbyes’! It has been a joy and a privilege.”

Kevin started life as an export sales manager before receiving a call to ministry as a 40 year-old.

He went to Nottingham to train as a vicar and was ordained in 1993 before going to practise in Halifax as a curate. He then worked in Pontefract for seven years before moving to Dewsbury.

Looking back on his working life Kevin added: “I’ve no regrets at all. I’m massively privileged to have had two wonderful careers - which were very different to each other, but both very stimulating. But seeing the Minster thrive has been a great joy for me.”

Kevin is to retire to Huddersfield with his wife Sandra and looks forward to spending more time with their friends and family, as well as indulging their passion for travel and frequent trips to Italy.

But his association with the Church will continue and he will be on hand to lead services in the West Yorkshire and the Dales diocese.

It is not known yet who will replace this pillar of the Dewsbury community, but one thing’s for sure - they’ll have big shoes to fill.