THE Archbishop of York has paid tribute to a former archdeacon of the city as he approaches his 100th birthday.

The Venerable Charles Forder has been a priest in the Church of England in Yorkshire for a staggering 76 years. He will celebrate reaching 100 at his North Yorkshire home on Saturday.

Today, the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, wished his colleague well. He said: "Charles Forder's life and ministry have been a great blessing to the church and those with whom he has lived and worked.

"As an archdeacon, a writer, and an influential member of the Church Assembly, he freely shared the wisdom and experience he gained as a parish priest, and I know that many will join me in giving thanks for his long service to Jesus Christ and his people.

"I wish Charles a very happy 100th birthday, and pray that he will continue to enjoy good health, the company of those around him, and the love of God whom he has served so faithfully for so long.

"It is fitting that Charles's birthday falls on the day of Epiphany. Charles had the wisdom of the wise men to seek Christ. On this feast of epiphany may the great light of Christ shine on all who are gathered to celebrate his long life."

Born in Norfolk in 1907, Charles Forder served in Leeds, Bradford, Beverley and Hull. In 1957 he was appointed Archdeacon of York - the senior figure responsible for the care and discipline of clergy and overseeing the proper running and maintenance of churches.

The archdeacon also undertakes administrative and legal work within the Archdeaconry of York, which includes the city itself and is bounded by Tadcaster, Selby, Market Weighton, Stamford Bridge, Malton and Easingwold - including about 200 churches.

As archdeacon, Charles Forder's title changed from "The Reverend" to "The Venerable", and as he took up the reins he also became Rector of Sutton-upon-Derwent from 1957 to 1963, and then Rector of Holy Trinity, Micklegate, York, from 1963 until his retirement in 1972 at the age of 65. He became a Canon of York Minster in 1957.

The late Canon John Norman, Rector of Dunnington from 1961 to 1972, spoke in 2001 of his friend as "a friendly, charming man - gentle and a delight to work with".

How living in Scarborough, the Ven Forder will celebrate his birthday on Saturday.