The funeral of veteran journalist Barbara Butcher MBE has taken place at Wye, near Ashford in Kent.

It attracted people from all walks of life anxious to pay their own private tributes to the former Kentish Express writer, who died at 87.

Placed on her coffin was her ancient Wilding de luxe portable typewriter, which churned out millions of words for this newspaper over six decades.

Wye vicar, Rev John Richardson, said: "With her cigarette, glass of wine, camera, notebook, cough and that old typewriter she was my mole and I was hers.

"Together we were able to sort the village out and her column was the talking point of the parish every Thursday.

"She was an inspiration, an institution and an extraordinary woman who led an amazing life and was respected by all. She was a straightforward person who offered tidal waves of encouragement to so many facing triumph and tragedy.

"We all have our own memories of Barbara but she was a truly respected legend in her own lifetime and will never be forgotten."

She had requested her funeral not to be morbid and with the choir, including Canterbury Festival director Mark Deller singing with extra gusto, it was appropriate that her beloved Bedlington Terrier Jay joined in with dignified solo barks as if to mark the passing of a loyal master.

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