The following death notices appeared in the Hexham Courant this week. Our thoughts are with their families and friends.

Hexham - BELL William Michael Walton (Mike) Peacefully in Acomb Court Care Home on October 7th 2020 aged 78 years. Mike dearly loved husband of Liz, a loving father to Vanessa, Rachel and stepfather to Noreen, Mark and Tim, also a dear grandfather. Mike will be sadly missed by all. Funeral private.

Ponteland - DOCKING Dorothy (nee Wilkin). Dorothy passed away peacefully on Friday 9th October, after a short illness. Her nearest family had the opportunity to visit her in Grange Lea Care Home, Ponteland, where she was being cared for whilst recuperating from a broken hip. Beloved wife of the late Ken Docking; Dorothy was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother in our blended family. Thank you for all the messages of condolences we have received. Sadly, due to current circumstances, attendance at Dorothy’s funeral and interment, along with Ken’s ashes, on Friday 23rd October will be by invitation only and with family flowers only, please.

Stocksfield (Formerly Newcastle) - GUY David Ian. Died peacefully at the RVI surrounded by his family on Monday 5th October, aged 77 years. Loving husband of Valerie, father of Catherine and Richard, father-in-law of Daniel and Elena and grandfather to Matthew, Tom, Ben and Oliver. Private funeral at West Road Crematorium at 12.00noon on Friday 16th October. No flowers please, donations in memory of David to Marie Curie. We are very thankful for the care the Hospice provided in David’s final weeks.

Hexham (Formerly Ovingham) - HALL John ‘Rufus'. On 6th October 2020, aged 93 years. Loved husband of his cherished wife, the late Helen. Adored dad of Lindsay, with Paul. Proud father of Jonathan, with Ruth. Granda of Monique and Danielle. Rufus wanted to thank his family and clan for their affection and his friends for their company. He also wanted to thank all of those who attended his annual ‘Birthday Bashes’ since his 90th, as he regarded these as great days and warm-ups for his final send-off. There will be a private funeral at West Road Crematorium. When circumstances allow, there will be a Memorial Birthday Bash to celebrate his life. Such a large character leaves a vast hole in the lives of those that love him; we all celebrate his life and cherish his memory.

Blaydon - LITTLE Brian MBE. Peacefully on October 9th 2020, aged 84 years. Brian Little MBE a local and well known Ornithologist. Beloved husband of the late Freda. Brian will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Private cremation to take place at West Road Crematorium, Newcastle on Thursday October 22nd at 12.30pm. Details of how to live stream this service please contact Coop Funeralcare, Blaydon 0191 4142925.

Barrasford - SMITH Agnes Patricia. Peacefully on October 8th 2020, at Woodhorn Park Care Home, Ashington. Beloved wife of the late John, loving mother of Patricia and the late Linda and devoted grandmother of Edward, Kate, Emily and Lucy. Private service to be held at St Aidan’s, Ashington. Donations in her memory if desired to Myeloma UK.

Gosforth - WALKER Margaret Hilary (nee Crick). Born 5th March 1935, died 27th September 2020 aged 85. Wife to the late Robert (Robin) F Walker. Previously of Corbridge and Riding Mill, Northumberland. An inspiring, intelligent, caring lady, who’s memory will be forever treasured by friends and family. All enquiries to Richard Bird Funeral Services, 57 Great North Road, Gosforth, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 2DQ, Tel 0191 5111412.

Hexham - WESTON Paul Passed away peacefully on 11th October 2020, aged 68. Loved husband of Jacqui, father to Vicki, Jennifer and grandfather to Jake and Sophia. Private Funeral at Hexham Woodland Cemetery.