People from across Suffolk came together at the memorial service for chief executive James Hehir who died suddenly earlier this month.

IPSWICH: People from across Suffolk came together at the memorial service for chief executive James Hehir who died suddenly earlier this month.

The Civic Church, St Mary le Tower, was packed for the memorial service, which was also relayed to others at the Corn Exchange.

Mr Hehir's 20 years of service to the town was remembered in readings, three moving eulogies and a pastoral address from the bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, Rt Rev Nigel Stock.

Ipswich council leader Liz Harsant told the congregation about Mr Hehir's commitment to the town - and how his infectious optimism had helped ensure its development during his 20 years at the helm.

Deborah Cadman, chief executive of the East of England Development Agency, spoke of his ability to help staff - and said chief executives and other public sector staff across the region were always looking to him for help and advice.

Personal friend and former Evening Star editor Crawford Gillan told how Mr Hehir enjoyed unwinding at sports events - and how he loved teasing his friends whether on the golf course or on a rugby weekend in London.

The service was relayed from the church to a large audience at the Grand Hall of the Corn Exchange where prayers were led by Rev Paul Daltry and a choir led the singing.