The Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey for the Life of Professor Stephen Hawking, during which the late scientist's ashes will be interred near the grave of Sir Isaac Newton, will be held on Friday 15 June, the Abbey announced today.

Professor Hawking, a Fellow of Gonville & Caius for over 52 years, died on Wednesday 14 March 2018. His funeral, a private event for family, friends and colleagues, will take place this Saturday, 31 March 2018, at Great St Mary's, the University Church in Cambridge.

Ticketing arrangements for the Westminster Abbey service will be announced in due course.

The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, said today: "It is entirely fitting that the remains of Professor Stephen Hawking are to be buried in the Abbey, near those of distinguished fellow scientists.

"We believe it to be vital that science and religion work together to seek to answer the great questions of the mystery of life and of the universe."

A book of condolence continues to be available in the Porters' Lodge at Gonville & Caius for those who would like to pay their respects.