A MUCH-loved Cumbrian clergyman who has "touched the lives of many" has passed away peacefully at his home.

Canon William Forster Roan, known as Bill ,was a grandfather of seven and the dad of Andrew and Sarah.

He died surrounded by members of his family on Thursday, aged 98.

Son Andrew said: "He has had a long life and he's touched the lives of many local people through his ministry as a priest in the Church of England - that was the focus of his life."

Family friend, Michael Butcher said: "He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family, it is what he would have wanted."

Among his many achievements Bill was made an Honorary Freeman of the City of Carlisle in 2016.

He had worked as a priest for longer than 70 years and had been involved in the Masonic movement in Carlisle, Cumbria, nationally and internationally and had been awarded the honour of Grand Chaplain for several years.

Bill was originally ordained a deacon in 1949 and had been a curate at St James, Barrow, from 1949 to 1952.

From 1952 to 1958 he was appointed curate-in-charge of St Mary’s, Westfield, Workington.

During this time it transformed from a mission, to a parish church, and Bill became its first vicar in 1958.

In 1961 he become Rector of Greystoke and warden of the Theological Training College there.

He spent nine years at Greystoke and married wife Eileen during this time.

In 1970 the family moved back to Workington on Bill’s appointment as vicar of St John’s where he remained until his retirement, aged 66 - he became an honorary canon of Carlisle Cathedral in 1972, surrogate from 1972 and the rural dean of Solway from 1977.

Retiring 28 years ago Bill and Eileen returned to their native city, Carlisle and lived in Chiswick Street.

Bill worshipped at St Cuthbert’s Church and also conducting services, weddings, baptisms and funerals.

During this life he worked tirelessly for the Masonic charity, the ambulance service and many other organisations.

When he was made an Honorary Freeman of the City of Carlisle in 2016 Bill said: “Like everyone else here, I didn’t ever think that I would receive this honour and I am grateful.”

Being Carlisle born and bred Bill was proud of the fact that St Cuthbert’s is the city parish church and the vicar is chaplain to the Mayor and City Council.

Bill was born in 1921 at Belle Vue Farm Carlisle and is descended from a long line of north Cumberland farmers.

Due to the Coronavirus restrictions, a private funeral service and interment will take place at Stanwix Cemetery and a memorial service to be arranged later.