A MEMORIAL service is to be held for a former Dean of Ripon in Ripon Cathedral where he used to preach.

The Very Reverend John Methuen, 62, died last year after many years of service to the Church of England.

The service is on Sunday, February 6 at 3pm and the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, the Right Reverend John Packer, will give a blessing.

He said: "This service is to celebrate the immense amount that John Methuen contributed to the cathedral, the life of the city of Ripon and social thinking in the Church of England.

"He will also be remembered for his commitment and enthusiasm in promoting and developing the ministry of the cathedral, his strong emphasis on justice and peace, and his generosity and welcome in allowing the cathedral to be a place used by many groups and causes."

The Bishop of Knaresborough, the Right Reverend James Bell, will also be present.

The Very Reverend Keith Jukes, the present Dean of Ripon, will lead Sunday’s service.

He said: "It is fitting that we gather to remember Dean John in the cathedral church that he served for so many years.

"His ministry was not without controversy but the service will seek to honour someone who, despite the difficult times, was a courageous servant of the church throughout his priestly ministry."

The Very Reverend John Methuen leaves a widow Bridget and two daughters.