A WELL-loved minister - described as "a gentle servant of Christ" - has died of cancer aged only 51.

The Rev Pamela Pettitt had been serving at Wimborne Methodist Church since 1999 and became superintendent of the Wimborne circuit.

Britain's most senior Methodist, the Rev Tom Stuckey was taking her funeral service at 2pm today at the Anglican Minster, itself a testament to her work for Christian unity.

Methodist minister Charles Coulam said Pamela was gentle and understanding.

"Her preaching ministry was something in which she delighted," he said.

"The services were always carefully prepared and beautifully delivered.

"Her interest in and knowledge of music and her natural ability was evident in her conducting of choirs and the introduction of new music.

"She had what we call a pastoral heart and was an excellent superintendent, setting a fine example pastorally and in leadership."

Minster Rector John Holbrook said: "I would describe her as a delightfully gentle servant of Christ who loved people deeply and was deeply loved in return.

"She had a nice, self-deprecating sense of humour and never drew attention to herself.

"All of us at the Minster are honoured to be asked to host the service."

An only child, Miss Pettitt grew up in Devon where her parents - Ted and Grace - ran an outfitters shop and she trained as a teacher specialising in music, French and English.

While teaching in Paignton she was encouraged to become a local preacher which led on to her feeling a call to the Ministry.

After theological training in Manchester, she worked in Portsmouth and then spent eight "very happy years" in Truro before coming to Wimborne.

Two years ago Pamela was suddenly taken ill but seemed to make a good recovery after surgery.

The cancer returned, however, and she died in Forest Holme Hospice in Poole.

Pamela never married - her parents said she was "married to her job".

Mrs Pettitt said: "She was always playing schools and ministers as a little girl."

Her father said: "We were absolutely proud of her. She was a lovely daughter."

First published: August 22