Colleagues and friends made up a large congregation at the funeral of the Rev Ronald Williamson Sharpley, former Rector of Burton Latimer, yesterday.

The service at St. Mary's Church. Burton Latimer, was conducted by Mr. Sharpley's successor, the Rev. Derek Hole. The Bishop of Peter­borough, the Rt. Rev. Cyril Eastaugh, gave the address. Mr. Sharpley's brother, the Bishop of Southampton, the Rt. Rev. K. E. N. Lamplugh. conducted the committal in the churchyard.

Mr. Sharpley was Rector of Burton Latimer for 30 years until he retired in 1967. He died at his home at Little Oakley on Monday.

Family mourners were: Mrs. K. K. N. Lamplugh (sister-in-law), and Mr. R. Lamplugh (nephew), also representing Dr. Anthony, Mr. John and Mrs. Stephen Pakenham. Mr. J. I. Swain (godson) and Mrs. Swain.

Other relatives were unable to attend.

Among other mourners was Canon H. O. L. Roberts, Rector of Kettering.