THE Bishop of Bolton has his sights set on retirement.

The Rt Rev David Bonser (pictured) is preparing to step down from office at the end of this month.

Following his official farewell ceremony at Manchester Cathedral, the bishop is now looking forward to getting down to some serious golf.

Bishop David will be missed by the Anglican community which warmed to his caring approach.

He thanked the people of the Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley areas who, he said, had been extraordinarily kind to him.

He said: "They have taken me into their hearts and I am very grateful for that."

The bishop has been active in the business communities, speaking at business lunches and promoting the church in the economy, in what he describes as bridge-building between the church and the industrial sector.

He said: "A bishop needs to capitalise on his acceptance in different sectors of society."

While the bishop is renowned for his forward looking approach, he is not impressed with the idea of a Millennium Dome and he reflected: "There's not enough emphasis on Jesus Christ - in all the hype people seem to have left Him out.

"Bishops can no longer take respect from the community for granted and I believe they have to make their own mark by playing a full part in the community. It's what you are as a person and what you do that makes a difference."

But where do bishops go when they retire?

Having decided to buy a home in Rochdale, the bishop is hoping to continue to find a niche that allows him "to give something back to the diocese in retirement".

He said "It's a bit like being a grandparent - having some of the joys of being a bishop without the responsibilities. I'll be free to be myself and do what I was ordained to do - care for people and encourage communities."

And the bishop's advice to his successor who has yet to be appointed?

"Don't focus on the difficulties - focus on the opportunities. Especially those to build bridges between the church and the community.

"I've carried the baton for some years and now I'm passing it on."

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