Everyone in the diocese will be deeply saddened to hear news of the death of Canon Pat Hartnett.

Canon Pat passed away peacefully last night (Thursday July 25) at Boarbank Hall Nursing home, Grange-over-Sands, where the sisters had been caring for him during his illness.

Monsignor Gerard Robinson and Canon David Grant both saw Canon Pat last week and he was anointed and received Holy Communion.

Canon Pat was born in Middlesbrough, where his Dublin-born father had come to play football for Middlesbrough FC.

He trained for the priesthood at St Patrick’s College, Thurles, Tipperary, Ireland, before being ordained at St Joseph’s Church, Middlesbrough, on June 15 1979.

He then ministered at many parishes, including St Thérèse of Lisieux at Ingleby Barwick, where he was instrumental in the building of the church, and more recently at All Saints, Thirsk. He also held prominent roles in the diocese, including Episcopal Vicar for Worship and Spirituality.

Please keep Canon Pat and his family in your prayers. May he Rest in Peace.