The bishop was due to retire at the end of May

The Bishop of Knaresborough, the Right Reverend Frank Weston, has died following a stroke.

Bishop Frank, who was 67, died at St James's Hospital, Leeds, on Tuesday after falling ill on Monday night.

His wife Penelope, known as Poppy, and members of his family were at his bedside.

Bishop Frank, who lived in Roundhay, Leeds, was due to retire at the end of May and had held a farewell dinner for colleagues and friends just four days before he died, the Docese of Ripon and Leeds said.

Final service

The Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, the Right Reverend John Packer, said: "We were stunned to hear of Frank's death, during this period when we have been saying farewell to him and to Poppy.

"Personally I have lost a close colleague and friend, who has guided and helped me over the three years we have worked together in Ripon and Leeds.

"Our prayers are with Poppy and the family, as we say thank you for the blessings Frank and she have brought to us, and commend him to God's care"

Bishop Frank and his wife had been married 40 years and were planning to retire to Bridlington.

A final service for the bishop had been due to take place at Ripon Cathedral on 18 May.

Bishop Frank had served the church as an ordained minister for 40 years.