There were hugs, tears and fond farewells as an Oxford church leader said her goodbyes.

The Rev Fleur Houston, the "much loved" minister at the Holy Family Church in Cuddesdon Way, Blackbird Leys, for the past seven years addressed her congregation for the final time on Sunday.

The jam-packed pews were testament to her popularity as members of her congregation young and old travelled from Oxford and beyond for her last service.

More than 80 people attended the service, which was followed by a surprise musical performance for Rev Houston by two community groups and a buffet lunch held in the church hall.

Rev Houston said: "I am so touched by this. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this community. I am obviously sad to go - I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here."

She will be moving to Macclesfield with her husband where she plans to enjoy her retirement and find more time for her hobbies, such as hillwalking.

Joining the congregation on Sunday were her three grandchildren, Magnus, four, and Isaac and Cameron, both two.

At the end of the service, people queued to give her flowers and presents.

Among the well wishers was Margaret Crowe, of Juniper Drive, Blackbird Leys, who said: "It's no surprise to see a turnout like this for such a much loved person."

Doreen Wright, of Cowley, said: "Fleur has been just the right sort of person for this church and we will miss her dearly."

Anna Enayat, who worked with Rev Houston on asylum projects in the Leys, said: "The work Fleur has done here has been amazing. I have never seen anyone so dedicated, considered and rational. She has a terrific way with people."

Richard Colbrook, pastor of the Leys Community Church, added: "Fleur has had a huge impact here.

"She is very popular and has been very supportive of the churches working together in Blackbird Leys for the good of the estate."

Rev Houston was born in Aberdeenshire and ordained in the early 1990s after a career as a French teacher and lecturer in Manchester and Belfast.