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26
Apr 2022
Archbishop of York presents long-service medal in Kirkby Malzeard
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, made a rare visit to St Andrew's in Kirkby Malzeard to honour one of the church's most loyal servants.
In what was the first visit by an archbishop to the church in living memory, he presented a specially-commissioned silver medal to Chris Slater.
Mr Slater retired from his unpaid role of parish sexton and verger at the church near Ripon last year.
The award was in recognition of his work over more than six decades, which included meticulously caring for the grounds at St Andrew's while keeping the building's fabric in good condition and the clock on time.
Chris Slater, wearing his silver medal for long-service, is pictured at St Andrew's.
Mr Slater married his wife Mary at St Andrew's 58 years ago and the church, where they and their daughter Susan were christened, has been supported by the family for decades.
Mr Slater, who is 81, told the Stray Ferret:
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As well as looking after the grounds and the fabric of the church, Mr Slater attended, without fail, funerals there while his wife and daughter prepared the church for wedding services.
An indication of his dedication to St Andrew's came in 2003 when he raised £3,000 with the help of family and friends to pay for the installation of an electronic mechanism to wind the church tower clock and its chimes.
He said:
The presentation of his medal was made as part of the Plough Sunday service at the church.
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