I had the pleasure to get to know Dame Vera and her family during campaigns to save the local Princess Royal Hospital Haywards Heath and was delighted to remain in contact afterwards and since.

It was always a delight to see how everybody reacted when they met her and she would always have time to stop and talk to everyone.

Dame Vera was the salt of the earth, she was always staggered with the fame and love which her career brought her.

Dame Vera was the hope of many who served and lived during World War 2 as she reminded them all of better times to come.

Rest In Peace, your duty is done.

ENDS.