The husband of Canon Anna Matthews, the leader of St Bene't's Church in Cambridge whose sudden death shocked many, has paid an emotional tribute to her.

In a statement shared with the St Bene't's congregation on Sunday, Canon Matthew's husband Stephen said: "Having received communion at the 12:30 service on Thursday, as I prayed for Anna, I was given an image that has been of great comfort to me: Even as she fell, God lifted Anna up.

"She was shining in the light of the resurrection as the hurt that overcame her fell away, along with her body. So, I pray to merciful God with hope that she was spared the final anguish, and in death she was cleansed and resurrected with Christ, rising in his glory."

The cause of death of Cannon Matthew was also made public during Sunday's service. A statement on the church's website now states that her death was "tragic and sudden".

"We are now able to confirm that she took her own life. We are awaiting the findings of the coroner's report to know more, and this will follow an investigation and inquest, which will take many weeks.  Please do not expect further information until this has happened.

"We realise that this further news will be very distressing and, as with any sudden death, it is really important to have someone to talk to. Most people will not need to speak to a professional, but if you feel you do then we encourage you to do so," the statement continued.

A book of condolences has been laid out in St Bene't's for people who wish to leave a contribution, and no funeral date has been made public yet.

If you've been affected by the content of this story, do contact Premier Lifeline, the national Christian helpline on 0300 111 0101.