COLLEAGUES have paid tribute to "distinguished theologian" former Cathedral Canon Iain MacKenzie, who died yesterday.

Canon MacKenzie worked tirelessly to promote Worcester Cathedral's library collection, during the decade during which he worked as a residential canon, until his retirement last year. He died yesterday morning, aged 66, after a battle against cancer.

Canon MacKenzie was canon librarian and joined the Cathedral after working with the Bishop of London.

Canon Bruce Ruddock, who worked with him for three years, said Canon MacKenzie was devoted to the library's collection of priceless manuscripts.

He said he worked with scholars from all over the world to develop the library's internationally-recognised collection.

"He was a distinguished theologian and a great scholar," he said. "He was a thoroughly pastoral person as well as an intellectual.

"He was a very fine preacher and a notable lecturer."

Canon MacKenzie's specialist area was the Early Fathers of the Church, and their particular doctrine and spirituality.

He was married and had three young children, who took part in services at the Cathedral.

"He was also sensitive, gentle and kind," said Canon Ruddock. "He cared about us, and he never forgot his Scottish roots and his Scottish sense of humour.

"He made a huge contribution to scholarship and learning at the Cathedral. He will be greatly missed as a friend by many people."

Canon MacKenzie retired to the west of Scotland last year. His funeral is expected to take place in Scotland next week.