Tributes have been paid to a dedicated church verger who has died after a short illness.

Co Tod, 84, became a well-loved member of the Alderley Edge community as the verger at St Philip and St James Church in Alderley Edge.

He was verger since 1984 when Canon Brian Young appointed him shortly after he came to St Philips in 1983.

His duties through his job as the verger were extensive and involved helping out at services as well as looking after the parish rooms and vicarage garden.

The great grandfather was known to children from the village schools who attended the church.

Pupils from Alderley Edge School for Girls were among those to attend Co’s funeral at the church last week.

Co, 84, died five weeks after collapsing at home and being diagnosed with cancer at Macclesfield Hospital.

Mandy Parr, from the church, said Co was loved and well known by villagers and church members alike.

Rev Jane Parry also paid tribute to him.

She said: “We were saddened about the recent death of our beloved verger Co.

“His passing has left a big gap for us, in our lives, in our church and in our village.

“He was a good and kind friend to so many people and there is no question, he was a man of faith.

“He will be greatly missed by many residents of Alderley as Co played an important role in the community.

“Co did everything to ensure the smooth running of the church and parish rooms and was involved with all aspects of the church, from linen and brass cleaning, locking and unlocking the church every day,

“He enjoyed chatting with everyone, was fantastic at welcoming people into the church and never forgot a face or name.

“He greeted everyone with his cheery smile and we will sorely miss his presence and reassurance around the church.”

Co was married to Rose and lived in Gawsworth. They have sons Michael and James and a daughter Gillian.

He was formerly a farm manager and has a twin brother in Canada.

His son Michael, who now lives in Anglesey, spoke at his funeral.

Michael said: “Dad was was very dedicated to the family and to the Alderley Edge community.

“He never missed a day at church and worked hard to help out in any way he could.

“Dad always put himself last and was an absolute trooper.

“He was a very special person and will be sadly missed.”