Edith Kate (Sarah) Knott The life of Mrs Sarah Knott, 91, who is was remembered fondly by many local people, was celebrated at a well attended service at St Bartholomew’s Church, Royal Wootton Bassett, on August 21.

Despite having been named Edith Kate, Mrs Knott, a loyal, caring, hard working person, was known as Sarah. A warm tribute was paid by her daughter, Judith Cable, who spoke gratefully of Sarah and John’s 69 wonderful years of married life, and the many years when they worked together at Noremarsh School, where their home was the caretaker’s bungalow.

Mrs Knott was devoted to her family and gained much joy from the visits of its younger members, especially her great grandchildren. Children acquired knitting, sewing and cookery skills under her expert guidance. Her culinary achievements were legendary and she prepared countless excellent dishes for her beloved family.

Mrs Cable said: “She was very tolerant when we used to play shops with tins and packets from her pantry. She often made us chuckle with her impish sense of humour.”

Mrs Knott was noted for her pleasant, placid temperament, her love of little children, her kindness and concern.

Hymns at the service were Morning Has Broken and all Things Bright and Beautiful.

The Rev Derek Ormston invited the congregation to reflect on Mrs Knott’s long life, with gratitude for her loving influence.

She loved all things Scottish, especially the bagpipes. Judith recalled being at sea, off the Scottish coast, 600 miles away, as a piper on the stern of the ship played a lament.

“I phoned mum, and she listened, over my mobile,” Mrs Cable said.

As a special farewell tribute last week, a lone piper accompanied the cortege from the church to the town cemetery.

Judith said: “She may have gone from us for a while, but we will carry our memories of her until we meet again.”

After the burial, everyone was invited by the family to share reminiscences and refreshments at The Woodshaw Inn.

Memorial donations, for The Prospect Hospice, may be sent c/o Maslin Funeral Service, 118a High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU.