THERE was a sombre mood among parishioners at Durham Cathedral yesterday.

More than 400 people packed into the pews at the Holy Communion service, with many more crowded at the back of the building unable to find a seat.

The congregation had gathered to mark Easter but there was little rejoicing.

The celebrations had been overshadowed by the death of one of the nation's favourite figureheads.

Young and old, tourists and locals, had all come together to pay their respects to the Queen Mother.

The Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Michael Turnbull, paid a moving tribute to a woman he had met on numerous occasions.

A lady, he said, who had consistently evoked affection and admiration in people from all walks of life.

He spoke of her love of Durham and told how whenever she would travel through the North-East, the Queen Mother would slow down the train as they passed so she could admire the city views.

Addressing the congregation, he said: "We, and particularly the Royal Family, have lost a person who epitomised stability and continuity when all around her was changing.

"As Queen to King George VI, she was an inspiration to many people who were bereaved and distressed during the war years, and her simple charm and high principles have become a symbol of all that is good. She was, we know, a lady of deep faith who read her Bible regularly and was genuinely concerned for the least fortunate of people."

The congregation listened to his words intently, many bowed their heads in silent reflection, some dabbed their eyes, others hugged, perhaps remembering their own loved ones that had passed away.

After the service, many queued to sign a book of condolence. "In memory of a great lady", "Thank-you Lord for her life", they wrote.

Privately, Bishop Turnbull spoke of his many discussions with the Queen Mother on homelessness and bible reading.

One particular incident will always remain in his memory. "We were in a lift. She was about 80 at the time and she said to me, 'Mr Turnbull, what would happen if the lift stopped?'

"I was feeling nervous anyway of being in a lift with a member of the Royal Family. It showed her humorous side," he said.

It is this side of her that the Royal Family, and the country, may seek comfort in during their period of mourning.

Afterwards, Bishop Turnbull spoke of his fondness for the Queen Mother.

Such was her love for Durham Cathedral, that the Queen Mother would go as far as getting the royal train to drive slowly past the historical building, he said.

He said: "The legend is, every time she went to Scotland she asked the train driver to slow down over the Durham viaduct, so she could see Durham Cathedral.