Hundreds at memorial service for teacher Betty Yates

Hundreds of people turned out today to pay their final respects at a memorial service for much-loved schoolteacher Betty Yates.

Mrs Yates, aged 77, was found stabbed at her secluded cottage in Bewdley on January 4 sparking a major police investigation. Her children, 53-year-old Hazel Costello, from Staffordshire, and 51-year-old David Yates, of Berkshire, were too upset to hold a large funeral at the time.

But they promised to stage a memorial service to allow her friends and former pupils to celebrate her life.

The service was held this afternoon at St Anne's Church in the town and Mrs Costello and Mr Yates shared memories of their beloved mother.

And they said while the circumstances of their mother's death could not be changed they wanted to celebrate her life.

A poem was also due to be read out called Fairytale. Mrs Yates chose it for the funeral of her husband, Ray.

In a tribute, Mr Yates said: "From the start I should say Hazel and I have been overwhelmed by the support we have received during this difficult time from family, friends, mum's work colleagues and pupils.

"Now we come together to celebrate and share in the different aspects of her life in which you have all played a part."

Mrs Costello said: "We simply want to say how proud we are of our Mum, her zest for life, the twinkle in her eye and her generosity of spirit." A collection was held in aid of Kemp Hospice and the International Needs UK charity.

People unable to attend the service but who wish to make a donation can still visit justgiving.com/betty -yates. Mrs Yates taught at St John's C of E School, in Kidderminster, and Foley First School, in Streetly.

Mrs Yates was a member of the Wyre Forest University of the Third Age group.

Stephen Farrow, aged 47, of no fixed address, has been accused of her murder. His next hearing at Bristol is on June 29.

Report by Lee Watton