February 2008

To the disappointment of many corps members, it has been announced that Major Noel Wright has received farewell orders.

It was hoped that the Army's policy of leaving officers in appointment for five years would be adhered to, but two and a half years after arriving at Hadleigh Temple, Major Noel has been appointed to THQ. This will take effect from 31 July 2008.

Major Wright said 'This was a totally unexpected appointment. I expected to be allowed to stay at Hadleigh for at least five years. I am very happy at the corps and will be sad to leave it. However, as an officer I am under the authority of the leadership of the Army and have never refused an appointment. I am confident that God will have already made provision for my needs and for the needs of the corps fellowship, so all will be well.'

Mrs. Wright, who was enjoying a holiday in her retirement when the news broke, was informed by international phone call that she will be moving. A London appointment is also good for son Richard. He will be moving with his parents and looks forward to being nearer his university in Ealing. 

Major Wright's new appointment is to THQ as Head of the Mission Development Unit, which used to be known as Church Growth Department. He had previsouly held an appointment as a member of that unit so he already has the experience to take on the appointment.

New Officers for Hadleigh Temple

He will be replaced by Majors Stuart and Gillian Dicker, currently stationed at Eastbourne Citadel. Major and Mrs Dicker are reported to be very happy with their posting to Hadleigh and of course, the corps will make them very welcome. They had previously spent 5 years at Barking Corps and their daughter remained at Barking when they left, so they have the added advantage of being closer to family.

The Dickers were commissioned a year before the Wrights and received their 25 year service medal in 2005. In 2002 Major Gillian received the Freedom of the City of London for her work and in 2007 Major Stuart attended a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

Further Reading:

Message from Major & Mrs Dicker

THQ Mission Development Unit

War Cry Article (2003) about Major Gillian Dicker (PDF document: scroll to page 4 once connected)

Eastbourne Citadel Corps

2008 UKI Changes of Officer Appointment