Tributes have been paid to one of the country's top bell ringers who has died at the age of 65.

Bryan Kitson devoted his life to the St Andrew's Church in Epworth after being appointed the verger while still a 14-year-old student at the former Scunthorpe Grammar School.

He was a member of the Ancient Society of College Youths, which is the world's premier ringing society.

Founded in 1637 and based in London, it promotes excellence in bell ringing.

In keeping with his memory, his widow Wendy asked mourners at his funeral service, held at St Andrew's on Friday, January 27, to donate to the Epworth and Belton church bell fund.

Mr Kitson, whose late father Ralph was secretary of the parochial church council, was a bell-ringer for 50 years at St Andrew's and other towers across North Lincolnshire and the rest of the UK.

Melvyn Rose, the present chairman of the St Andrew's restoration committee, said: "Bryan was a member of the Lincoln Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers and was the West Lindsey branch ringing master for a number of years.

"In addition, he was also the guild peal secretary for a period."

Mr Kitson, who passed away on January 8 at SCunthorpe General Hospital, also had a wide knowledge of history and church architecture.

Mr Rose said: "Along with his wife Wendy, he visited many churches of architectural merit in various parts of the country.

"His favourite area for visiting churches was the Lincolnshire Wolds where he spent many happy hours.

"In his study at his home in Epworth, an extensive collection of church photographs and architectural records can be seen."

Mr Kitson was a councillor for 30 years and later a clerk to Epworth Town Council.

And he was also a big fan of quizzes.

"Bryan was feared, as he was extremely knowledgeable and usually won," said Mr Rose.

"He did not, however, fare so well when pop music was a topic. Bell ringing on the Isle of Axholme is currently experiencing a revival and Bryan's membership of the team will be sadly missed."