A farewell service is to be held for a priest who is leaving Sheppey after nearly four years to take up a new post.

The Rev Sue Martin has been a curate on the Island since she was ordained in July 2010.

The 44-year-old is going to become the priest-in-charge for three Kent parishes, which are collectively known as the United Benefice of St Mary the Virgin – Reculver and St Bartholomew, Herne Bay with Holy Cross, Hoath.

Originally from Haslemere, Surrey, she moved to Sheppey from another post in Ashford.

She has previously worked as a youth worker in churches and as a learning mentor at a primary school.

Over the past few years Mrs Martin has led several annual services, including the Blessing of the Waters and Torchlight Parade in Queenborough and Remembrance Sunday commemorations.

She said: “I am excited about the new opportunity, but I’m sad to be leaving as well. I love the people of the Isle of Sheppey. I think they are lovely. I live in Queenborough Vicarage so I have really got to know a lot of people. I’m quite a people person so I’ve really enjoyed meeting everyone. It has been a privilege.

“I would like to thank them for the lovely memories that I am taking with me and for their friendship and may God bless them in the future.”

There have been many highlights during Ms Martin’s stay, but one occasion is particularly memorable.

She said: “One of the funniest was when I did the Blessing of the Waters for the first time.

“As soon as I opened my mouth to speak it started raining and we all got absolutely soaked. We literally did get blessed by the waters.”

A farewell service, led by the Rev Tim Hall, will take place at 11am today at Minster Abbey, off Union Road, Minster.