THIS weekend saw the departure of a very much loved priest, Rev Father John Dunne of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Southbourne.

Fr Dunne followed Canon Henry Murphy 14 years ago, who had left an indelible mark on the parish after 40 years. Despite this, Fr Dunne in his own quiet way became a well known priest locally and a very much loved priest. He also played an active part in the local council of churches.

Recently he celebrated 40 years as a priest and a great party was organised by the parishioners on that occasion.

A farewell party was also organised by the parishioners and the hall was packed to capacity – many folk coming from nearby parishes and organisations.

Presentations were made by the parishioners – a cheque for £4,070 – and by the local churches and the Irish community.

At his last Mass on Sunday morning the church was packed to capacity, not unusual for Fr Dunne, and at the end of his mass the congregation rose as one and sang For He’s A Jolly Good Fellow.

Fr Dunne will particularly be missed by the sick.

He regularly visited every sick parishioner, and some who were not.

He has moved to Kiln, near Reading.

MRS M PIDGEON, Castlemain Avenue, Bournemouth