THE funeral of an Usk poet, described as one of the most significant writers in Wales, will take place in December.

Anne Jackson, who wrote under the name Anne Cluysenaar, was found dead at her home on Little Wentwood Farm, in Wentwood, near Llantrisant on November 1. She was 78.

Belgian-born Mrs Jackson, who published her last collection of poems earlier this year, lived at a farm with husband Walt Jackson after moving to Monmouthshire more than 25 years ago.

The literary world paid tribute to the well-respected poet and retired lecturer recognised for her long-standing contribution to literature, both locally and nationally.

Among the many tributes paid to Mrs Jackson was one from Literature Wales – a society for Writers of Wales – which said the esteemed poet and Fellow of The Welsh Academy will be “sorely missed”.

Amy Wack, from the publisher Seren Books, knew her as a considered and subtle poet.

She said: “I particularly loved her collection (Batu Angus) inspired by the work of Alfred Russel Wallace, a contemporary of Charles Darwin and a co-discoverer of the theories of evolution.”

“She brought her characteristic careful attention and energetic joy to her scientific studies of the geology of Wales and wrote beautiful poems about the natural world.”

David and Stella Collard of Usk Civic Society said Mrs Jackson had a keen interest in the society and was a well-liked member of the community.

The funeral will be held in St Mary’s Priory Church, Usk at midday on December 12.

l Her 48-year-old stepson Timothy Jackson, of Mount Street in Sheffield, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court earlier this month charged with her murder. Gwent chief coroner David Bowen, opened and adjourned the inquest on November 21 due to ongoing legal proceedings and released Mrs Jackson’s body for the funeral to take place.