THE Poole reverend who regularly spearheads mercy missions to rural Zimbabwe has hailed the departure of President Robert Mugabe as a “new beginning” for the African nation.

Mugabe resigned, bringing an end to 37 years of rule and sparking wild celebrations on the streets, during impeachment proceedings against him on Tuesday.

Former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was forced to flee Zimbabwe two weeks ago after learning of a plot to kill him, was set to be sworn into office today.

It was Mr Mnangagwa’s sacking, earlier this month, that triggered the political crisis - which sparked a military takeover and saw 93-year-old Mugabe deliver a rambling national address, where many thought he’d be announcing his intention to step down.

Alan Clarredge, who worked as a medical technician in the 1980s and treated Zimbabwe’s first lady, Sally Mugabe, with kidney dialysis, will be travelling back to Zimbabwe in the New Year to deliver aid and install water purification systems at hospitals and orphanages.

Speaking to the Daily Echo after news of Mr Mugabe’s resignation broke, Alan said: “Over the years he has lost his grip on the country. Hopefully, this will be a new beginning.”

Alan, aged 77, from Rossmore Gospel Church, Poole, established the Rivers of Living Water charity to help people in poverty-stricken rural parts of the country.

“Hopefully, whoever takes over will get the economy right because the people are suffering,” he said. “I’m getting calls everyday from people who cannot even get food. I took phone calls saying he was going before he went. The feeling out there right now, I’m told, is euphoria.

“There may be a bit of reticence over the new guy coming in, but certainly I shall know much more in January when I’m over there.

“I’m pleased to return and as far as I’ve been able to pick up everything is safe. There has been no violence and there is not likely to be.”

Alan will distribute his latest aid shipment in January.