Mourners congregated at the chapel of Oxford University's Harris Manchester College yesterday (February 10) for the funeral of former Vice Chancellor Lord Bullock.

The service was attended by about 150 family members, friends and colleagues, including his widow Nibby, sons Adrian, Matthew and Nicholas, the current Vice Chancellor Sir Colin Lucas, and the president of the Unitarian Church, the Rev Austin Fitzpatrick.

Lord Bullock was the author of several important works on 20th century history, including Hitler: A study in Tyranny, and Hitler and Stalin: Parallel Lives, and was the founder of St Catharine's College.

The service was held at the chapel at Harris Manchester College because Lord Bullock, a Unitarian, worshipped there.

The service included the hymn Jerusalem, and readings by his three sons.

The service ended to the music The Ride of the Valkyries, by Wagner.

The principal of Harris Manchester College, the Rev Dr Ralph Waller, said of him: "He was one of the most attractive personalities I have ever met.

"We shall remember him for his wonderful life and great sense of humour, which was always kind and never sarcastic."

The Rev Peter Hewis, who led a prayer at the service, said Lord Bullock chose the music for his service shortly before his death.

He added: "He chose Jerusalem because he was a big fan of William Blake, and I think he wanted Wagner because he wanted something dramatic to leave the church with."

Lord Bullock's body was cremated at Oxford Crematorium.