Chief Operating Officer Richard Taylor said: “Under Jan’s guidance the University Chaplaincy has supported countless staff and students through both good and tough times over the years, and she leaves behind her a strong and vibrant Chaplaincy.

"Jan has been a very visible and respected presence on site and she will be widely missed.”

The search will now start for a successor to Jan, but it is clear that they will have big shoes to fill.

Deacon Jan came to Loughborough for her first appointment in ministry in August 2005 when she was stationed to the Loughborough Methodist Circuit, and over the following seventeen years she has held positions in circuit ministry and Loughborough University. These include: Circuit Minister and Circuit Mission Enabler, founder of Loughborough Street Pastors, Chaplain to the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Paul Day, and Loughborough University Chaplain.

Jan has also worked with the Leicestershire Constabulary, Charnwood Borough Council and has been part of: the District Probationers’ Committee, Connexional Candidates Committee, Charnwood Nightime Economy Group and Pub Watch.

Jan would like to thank colleagues, students, Loughborough Students' Union, friends and the community of Loughborough, Loughborough University and Loughborough College, adding: “Loughborough will always hold a special place for me as I move back to the West Midlands to enjoy my retirement and look forward to all that the future holds. It has been an absolute privilege for me to be able to serve the people of Loughborough, and stand alongside so many, sharing in their times of sorrow and joy. I have no words that can adequately thank you for the kindness, love and support I have received."

We wish Jan a long and happy retirement.