TRIBUTES have been paid to a loyal servant to Durham Cathedral, who also supported and served other bodies in the city.

Former Chapter Steward Anne Heywood died recently following a long illness, aged 70.

A funeral was staged at St Bartholomew’s in Croxdale and despite limited numbers being able to attend the service, former colleagues and guides gathered outside to pay their respects.

Having studied at Durham as a mature student at the university, the lifelong Anglican answered a vacancy for the chapter stewardship and took up the post in December 1997.

Responsible for visitor management and public relations, she worked with Warner Brothers on the filming of the first two Harry Potter films, plus meeting and greeting royalty and other visiting dignitaries and celebrities.

Vice Dean and Precentor, Canon Michael Hampel, said: “Anne embraced Durham Cathedral with zeal and enthusiasm.

“She wanted the best for the place she loved so much and worked tirelessly to make sure everything within her remit was just right.

“She was admired and respected by the volunteers whom she oversaw and was feared and respected by film companies and other contractors who quickly worked out who was in charge!”

Long-serving cathedral guide and friend Lilian Groves said: “She was a really generous and caring individual.

“Many volunteers and members of staff have reason to be grateful to her.

“Anne suffered from ill-health for much of her life, but that did not stop her having a very full retirement.

“Her boundless energy and fertile ideas served St Cuthbert’s Hospice well and she undertook the role of churchwarden in her parish church, in Croxdale.

“She will be much missed, but I can’t help but wonder if she is busy organising heaven!”