A SPECIAL service is being held to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death.

Councillor Anne Reed, who represents Crook in County Durham, decided to organise the memorial service after she was approached by residents keen to mark the occasion.

Royalist Anita Atkinson, who has created a museum dedicated to the royal family on her farm in nearby Fir Tree, offered the use of her barn and will also serve afternoon tea.

The 20-minute service will be led by Deacon Sue Peat, Methodist minister for Weardale, and will include the hymn Make Me a Channel for your Peace accompanied by Bishop Auckland duo Excalibur.

After the service people will be free to explore Mrs Atkinson’s museum, which contains a large amount of Princess Diana memorabilia, and can eat afternoon tea. Guitarist and singer Jak Hope, from Willington, will also perform.

Cllr Reed said: “Princess Diana was a wonderful woman who broke down barriers and was very in touch with the people. She was just one person but she made a great difference and that is an inspiration to us all.”

Mrs Atkinson added: “"The death of Diana is still resonating, not least with the two Princes, William and Harry, as it would be, of course,"

Afternoon tea costs £5 and can be booked by contacting Mrs Atkinson on 07798-748828