The leader of Bath's city centre Catholic community has been given a heartfelt send-off by the homeless people he has supported for the past 12 years.

Bath Rugby fan Father Tom Gunning is swapping jobs with Bristol Rovers supporter Father David Ryan as he leaves St John's Catholic Church in South Parade.

Father Ryan is coming from Stroud, with Father Gunning taking his place in the Gloucestershire town.

Former actor Father Gunning was given a farewell by his congregation at one event, but last week was also thanked by homeless people for the help he has given them during his time in the city.

He has been a tower of strength to homelessness charity Julian House.

A group of friends and users of the charity gathered to wish him luck, presenting him with pieces of artwork made by homeless people.

Julian House runs a day centre and night shelter, providing free tea and coffee, as well as facilities such as a shower and laundry service.

Father Gunning believes that the charity is a valuable resource for the city in tackling homelessness.

"Helping the homeless is part of the Christian outreach programme and I really believe that it can help to tackle some of the problems that the homeless face.

"From finding a place to sleep to somewhere to wash clothes, being homeless can be a daily struggle.

"Julian House offers these facilities, as well as advice, and I know that many of the homeless in Bath have found it useful and encouraging to know there is somewhere they can go when they are struggling."

Night shelter manager Kevin Edwards praised Father Gunning's work over the years.

"He has been incredibly supportive of Julian House, from raising awareness to helping at events such as the soup kitchen at Christmas. He has been a valuable member of the team and we will miss him."

Assistant priest Father Peter Cornwell also paid tribute to his colleague.

He said on the church's website: "We have all been recipients of his warm-hearted generosity, patience and compassion. He has served us, not by brewing up pretentious schemes and plans, but by simply giving himself to the task of making God's love real.

"I personally owe him a deep debt of gratitude for his unfailing tolerance, good humour and friendship."

Bristol-born Father Ryan has also worked in Swindon, Gloucester and Warminster.