A MUFFLED peal was rung at Sandford Parish Church at the beginning and end of the service to commemorate and celebrate the life of Rosemary Allsop who died on July 12, aged 71, after a brave fight against cancer.

The service on July 26 was taken by the Rev Paul Fillery and the church was filled with people from all walks of life.

Donations at the close were for Hospiscare, FORCE Cancer Charity and Mesothelioma UK or may be sent through A White and Sons, Crediton EX17 2BZ.

Mr Fillery said that Rosemary, one of four daughters, had grown up in Sussex and had "a wonderful rich life”.

She was sensitive and creative with a great sense of fun. From an early age, music had played a large part of her life, learning to play the piano at the age of five.

She went to school in Chichester then Cranbrook Chase, summer holidays being spent at music schools. Later she went to Technical college and then Goldsmiths in London to study music and teaching, which was where she met Peter.

He was reading for his Doctorate at Oxford.

After their marriage Rosemary became a junior teacher at a High School in Chichester. They moved to Exeter when Peter became tutor at the University and Rosemary taught at Newton Abbot.

In 1978 came the move to Sandford. In 1984, after the birth of their son, the family moved to Chapeldowns House.

"But Sandford never left their hearts," said Mr Fillery.

She was involved with the church bellringing, handbells, Brownies, played for the pantomime, choir practise was at their home, “you name it, Rosemary did it," said Mr Fillery.

Daughter Isabel was born.

"Hospitality flowed from their home, there was always something going on," added Mr Fillery.

"Rosemary enjoyed every second, she loved experimental cookery and pottering in the gardens. There was always a book on-the-go on all subjects as well as audio books," he added.

Rosemary had continued teaching until a year ago, the longest serving member of staff of the Maynard School in Exeter.

Mr Fillery said Rosemary had borne her illness with great dignity and courage. Self-effacing she could not understand why she was loved by so many people.

"A tireless supporter, a kind and generous soul. We will never forget her legacy here," he said.

Someone said it was not thinking less about yourself but thinking about yourself less that mattered.

It was also said that Rosemary was driven by an incredible inner strength that propelled her through life.