Lady Bader passes away aged 97

Widow of legendary World War Two pilot Sir Douglas Bader dies peacefully in sleep

LADY Joan Bader, the widow of the legendary Second World War pilot Sir Douglas Bader, has died aged 97.

She passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 18 at her care home in Rhayader, Wales, where she spent much of her younger life.

In latter years, Lady Bader spent many years with her husband at their beloved farmhouse in Marlston.

She also gave much of her time to charities, including Guide Dogs for the Blind and Riding for the Disabled and was awarded an OBE for services to disabled people.

Lady Bader was also involved in volunteering at the Watermill Theatre and also at Bucklebury Horse Trials and was often seen enjoying a drink at her favourite hostelry – the Old Boot Inn in Stanford Dingley – with her friends.

She leaves three children, Wendy, Michael and Jane, and grandchildren Charley, Tessa, Adam, Russell, Jeannie, Hattie, Jojo, Robin and great grandchild Luna.

Sir Douglas lost both his legs in an RAF plane crash while performing stunts in 1931.

He became a Battle of Britain hero before being captured in German-occupied France in 1941 and was sent to Colditz Castle as a prisoner- of-war.

His bravery was immortalised in the 1956 film Reach for the Sky, starring the late Kenneth More as Sir Douglas.

A private cremation for Lady Bader will be held in Aberystwyth, a place near to her heart and where she spent many early years. A memorial will be held at a later date.

Any donations can be made to Crosfield House, Dark Lane, Rhayader, Powys LD6 5DB (info@crosfieldhouse.co.uk) or The Douglas Bader Foundation, 14 Raynham Road, Hammersmith, London W6 0HY www. douglasbaderfoundation.com