HUNDREDS of people queued outside a North-East church yesterday to say goodbye to a well-loved community figure who died on New Year's Day.

About 600 people attended Bob Carnell's funeral.

Friends, colleagues and associates filled the seats, aisles and choir stalls.

Scores were left to listen to the service from outside St James the Great Church, in Albert Hill, Darlington.

Mr Carnell, 59, was born and brought up in Darlington and worked tirelessly for the community.

He was the chairman of governors at the new Education Village in Haughton.

Last year, he was named Darlington's governor of the year - as chairman of governors at Beaumont Hill Special School.

He was also chairman of the Gateway Club, in Salters Lane, for children with learning difficulties, and ran Carnell Coach and Horses, hiring out horse-drawn coaches.

Father Ian Grieves led tributes to Mr Carnell. He said: "Bob was indeed a good man, caring, kind and generous. He was uncomplicated and full of common sense.

"Bob lived life and enjoyed it to the full. He had a wonderful smile. We have all lost a good friend and the best thing we can do is to carry on his good work."

Mr Carnell continued the family tradition by becoming a plumber. He went on to work for Darlington Borough Council and then set up a building firm, Carnell Construction.

Fr Grieves said: "Bob was a gift to us all in so many ways. We have shared in his work and been privileged to share in his life. We have been warmed by his love, support, sincerity and sheer joyful friendship."

After the service, friends and family congregated to celebrate his life.

He leaves his wife, Heather, 60, son Andrew, 31, daughter Suzanne, 34, and parents Muriel and Harry.