David Sheppard, former Bishop of Liverpool, dies

David Sheppard, the former Bishop of Liverpool, died last night at the age of 75, a spokesman for the diocese said. The Right Revd Lord Sheppard, a former international cricketer who captained England and was also an attacking batsman for Sussex, had been suffering from cancer for some time.

David Sheppard, the former Bishop of Liverpool, died last night at the age of 75, a spokesman for the diocese said. The Right Revd Lord Sheppard, a former international cricketer who captained England and was also an attacking batsman for Sussex, had been suffering from cancer for some time.

He was Bishop of Liverpool from 1975 to 1997.

The spokesman said he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by friends and family, a day before his 76th birthday. Grace Sheppard, his wife for more than 47 years, and his daughter Jenny, said in a statement: "We want to thank those whose prayers and support have sustained us all during this long journey."

James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool since 1998, said: "David Sheppard will go down in history as one of the few diocesan bishops of the 20th century who exercised influence in the life of the nation as well as the church.

"Rooted in the realities of urban life, he spoke and acted prophetically. He distilled the experience and insights of the Diocese of Liverpool, and showed how the Gospel of Jesus Christ connected with the poor. David and Grace served God in this Diocese for nearly a quarter of a century, and did so with faith, wisdom, compassion and courage. The Diocese is deeply thankful to God for his remarkable ministry and leadership."

A book of remembrance will be opened tomorrow at Liverpool Cathedral and a private family funeral service will be held at St Bridget's in West Kirby, followed by a cremation.

The ashes will be interred at the Cathedral at a later date. There will be a public thanksgiving service at the Cathedral at a date to be announced.