A METHODIST minister at four Wyre Forest churches has left the role after three years.

Pam Garrud was minister at Methodist churches in Foley Park, Bewdley, Cookley and Highley before leaving at the end of July.

She came to Kidderminster from London as a probationer minister and was ordained last year. She has also worked part-time as a town centre chaplain.

Originally from the United States, Mrs Garrud will be returning there with her husband, Trevor, to care for her elderly parents.

She said: “I was meant to stay until at least 2011 but I’m moving back to the States to help them out.

“I have enjoyed working at the churches. One of the things I have really enjoyed is getting a good relationship going with Foley Park Methodist Church and the West Kidderminster Parish. Relationships in Bewdley have been great and the people have been fantastic.”

While working as a minister, Mrs Garrud helped set up the Kidderminster Child Contact Centre, in 2006, and acted as secretary to the management committee.

“I will miss the people when I leave,” the 52-year-old, of Sutton Park Road, told The Shuttle. “The people here have been absolutely fantastic, both the ministers and the Anglicans.

“People have been generous and I think it’s been fantastic. I hope, in some small way, I have been able to help the community through the people I have come into contact with as well.”

Rev Mary Austin, of Trinity Methodist Church, said: “Pam has made a big impact during her time here.”