MEMBERS of a church community have paid their final respects to a semi-retired priest who became a familiar figure in their parish.

Father Michael McGovern spent recent years helping Father Michael Corbett, at St Joseph's RC Church, in Gilesgate, Durham.

He remained active in church events until recent weeks, despite having been diagnosed with cancer 20 months ago and undergoing chemotherapy.

Fr McGovern died at St Joseph's Presbytery last Friday, aged 82.

Formerly a member of the Salisian community, he taught music at the order's college in Bolton, near Manchester, before moving to County Durham in semi-retirement.

Fr Corbett said Fr McGovern was very popular among parishioners, who were saddened when they were told of his death at Sunday Mass.

"I've never seen so many people with tears in their eyes when they were told," he said.

"He's been assistant priest in this parish for 16 years, but he's been at the presbytery for the last five and he's remained extremely active, extremely fit.

"He was 82 but until a couple of months ago he would drive up to Glasgow to see his sister, Mona, and her husband, Pat, as well as across to the Lakes where he enjoyed walking, but his great love was music.

"Although he was a tough character and very independent, he had a softer side when caring for people."

A Requiem Mass was held at St Joseph's Church yesterday and will be followed by burial at a Salisian order plot at a cemetery in Bolton, today.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made care of St Joseph's to the Catholic overseas' aid charity, Cafod.