THOUSANDS of people flocked to York Minster to bid farewell to their archbishop, who is retiring after almost a decade in high office.

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, is leaving Bishopthorpe Palace to return to his roots as a parish priest at St Margaret's Church, Ilkley.

Fellow clergymen, friends and worshippers packed the pews for his farewell eucharist on Saturday, when tributes, both moving and humorous, were paid.

Canon Glyn Webster spoke of the "affection, deep respect and lots of gratitude" felt for Dr Hope.

"Your feet have always remained firmly on the ground, but you have been a very holy bishop to us," he said. "We have always been able to see where your clear priorities lie, namely in your own individual commitment to Christ, your devotion to him and your zeal to live the life of Christ."

He said of the archbishop: "His life is well and truly rooted in prayer. He has spoken to us in the name of God and interpreted the gospel of Christ with clarity ... but also with simplicity."

He praised his humility, saying he "never lost the plot" during his life of service.

"You have never taken yourself too seriously," he said, recalling a visit to Buckingham Palace when other guests rolled up in chauffeur-driven cars, while the archbishop chose instead to walk up the Mall.

"You have been a very human diocesan bishop."

The Bishop of Hull, the Right Reverend Richard Frith, who will cover for Dr Hope until a new appointment is made, said: "Over the centuries Archbishops of York have led armies, been executed, been arrested for high treason, but I doubt there's ever been an Archbishop of York who has evoked so much affection and warmth."

He presented him with a cheque for £6,000 on behalf of the diocese, thanking him for "your friendship with God and your friendship with us".

Dr Hope expressed "enormous" gratitude to the 3,000-strong congregation at his farewell service, and admitted being "lost for words" at the "huge amount of money" presented to him.

"It has been wonderful to be here among you and to visit so many parishes and meet so many different people."

He warned against debates on issues such as gay marriages and women bishops dominating the Church of England, saying the focus should instead be on bridging the gap between rich and poor nations.

Updated: 10:29 Monday, January 17, 2005