AS the Bishop of Oxford begins to wind down and his retirement draws ever nearer, it is wonderful to see how many turned out to honour him this weekend. The Diocese has said that some 2,200 turned up to Saturday’s Grand Day Out, a day of picnics, talks and workshops to start bidding the Rt Rev John Pritchard farewell.

They were joined by some of the walkers of this week’s Thames Pilgrimage, the 10-day walk taking Bishop John throughout the county and well among his flock.

Speaking to the Oxford Mail, Bishop John touched upon some of the challenges his predecessor may have to face. He talked of a “divided city” – one which still has great gaps between rich and poor, the haves and have-nots.

It is refreshing to see a faith leader so in tune with the day to day life of city he serves and his comments are testament to the dedication with which he has served Oxfordshire parishes in his seven years at the helm.

Whichever your religious outlook there is one thing that can certainly be agreed on. Bishop John may refer to a “divided city” when it comes to money and opportunity, but one thing we can unite on is that the city will be sad to see the Bishop go when he steps down in October.