The Archbishop of York is paying tribute to the Dean of Ripon who's died at the age of fifty nine.
Very Revd Keith Jukes explained in a letter to those attending services last Sunday that he'd been suffering with cancer. The note concluded: "I am at home at the moment, feeling very weak and tired, but in good heart. I know that come what may, God is with me, and my life is in his hands. Please pray for me, and for Susanne and our family. God bless you all, Keith."
Dr John Sentamu said he was an inspiring Dean and his prayers go out to his family. The Bishop of Ripon Leeds, Rt Revd John Packer said:
"Dean Keith was greatly loved by the Cathedral community and by people in the wider city and his death will leave a hole in many of our lives.
"I have lost a close colleague and personal friend.
"Keith has been a tremendous influence for good within the Cathedral and Diocese - we shall miss his integrity, his ready smile and his generous support."
Dean Jukes leaves his wife, the Revd Susanne Jukes and children.