A “larger than life” vicar who had been at Oldham Parish Church for more than a decade has passed away.

Reverend Derek James Palmer, who joined Oldham Parish Church in 2009, died on Tuesday, May 31 of a long illness aged 68.

He retired on December 31 and had just found a new place to live in Failsworth, but did not get the chance to move in.

The news of his death has been met by flood of grief and countless messages of condolence.

The Oldham Times:

The founder of Oldham Street Angel's, Reverend Canon Jean Hurlston, who is Borough Dean of Oldham and was Father Derek’s associate, said: "Father Derek was a larger-than-life figure who was well known in Church of England circles and the local community of Oldham.

“Derek was always very supportive of my work in setting up Oldham Street Angels.

“He chaired the Churches Night Shelter that took homeless people off the streets prior to lockdown providing them with overnight shelter in local churches.

“He will also be remembered by the staff and pupils of The Blue Coat School, Oldham where he was a Governor and frequent visitor taking assemblies and communion services.

“He was also a Governor at Holy Cross Primary School.

“One of his proudest moments was to prepare the liturgy for the live BBC One Christmas Morning service on TV in 2018.

“Derek was an amazing liturgist and man of faith, but he also touched the lives of many people by his service to those who were marginalised in society. Derek will certainly leave a legacy of inclusivity.”

The Oldham Times:

The former Mayor of Oldham Ginny Alexander wrote on Facebook: “It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you that Rev Derek James Palmer from Oldham Parish Church has passed away.

“He had been quite ill for some time I am sure you will join me in sending our prayers. Rest In Peace Derek.

“You have served Oldham and its people well and we thank you for your service. God bless you.” Commenting on the post, Paul Scoltock wrote: “I am so sad to hear of Derek's passing, he was a wonderful Vicar at Oldham Parish Church. Rest in Peace Derek”.

Andrea Dickinson added: “This is very sad news, such a lovely man. Thoughts are with his family”.

Father Derek's funeral will take place at 2pm today, Wednesday, June 15, at Oldham Parish Church.

Father Derek planned his own funeral which will be led by Bishop Mark, Middleton, he requested no flowers but instead donations to be sent in his memory to The Albert Kennedy Trust.