A specially commissioned memorial stained glass window has been installed in a parish church in tribute to a much loved local GP.

Dr Jane Rajan, a GP and mother of two from Thirsk, lost her battle with cancer at the age of 51. To mark her life and commemorate her dedication to her work and family her husband Raj Rajan commissioned the window for St Wilfrid’s Church at Kirby Knowle, near Thirsk.

The work was carried out by York based Barley Studios. Designer Helen Whittaker said the window symbolises Jane’s dedication as a doctor, showing St Luke who was both a physician and a painter, and her devotion to her family.

She said: “The window shows St Luke painting an icon of the Virgin and Child. Behind the artist is a darkened doorway through which glimpses of finished portraits can be seen. Also seen in the window are celebrated medical and religious figures such as Elizabeth Garrett Anderson , pioneer of women’s medicine, and Alexander Fleming , the inventor of penicillin.

“In the foreground of the window you can see a pot of three lilies, which is a reference both to the Holy Trinity and to Jane’s husband and two children. To the left is a pot holding medical instruments, with a small emblem of the British Medical Association, a body close to Jane’s practice as a Doctor. There is also a jar of paintbrushes, representing the over-arching themes of purity, healing and creativity.

“Jane and Raj’s family roots in Scotland and Sri Lanka are symbolised by the border patterns, which derive from the tea plant with its historical trade connections between the two countries. Continuing growth from these roots symbolises their love for each other and their children.”

The window was installed at a special service in the church this afternoon, Monday November 24. The Revd Ian Houghton, Vicar of the Osmotherley and Hillside Parishes, said, “Jane was a much loved and respected local GP, and she often visited St Wilfrid’s as a place of quiet and refreshment. Jane was originally from Scotland, so it’s very fitting that we’ll be dedicating the window on Sunday 30th November , St Andrew’s day.”

“The window is a wonderful addition to the church, as well as being a fitting memorial to Jane. We hope that it will contribute to the atmosphere of tranquillity and beauty in the church and that it will draw more people to visit for rest, refreshment and prayer, just as Jane did.”