The Honourable Lady Ann Brooks. Thanksgiving Service
1930 -2024
St, Peter’s Church, Church Langton
Ann Fremantle was born in London. As a child she was evacuated to the countryside during the war where she endured and often thrived in a series of boarding schools. She worked as a secretary at a London law firm. Ann married Timothy Brooks in London in November 1951 and moved to Leicestershire, living first at Whatton then Keepers Cottage at Wistow. Her father, Lord Cottesloe, realised that the rundown family estate at Wistow in Leicestershire needed serious attention, and he said to Ann one day, “it would be wonderful if you could choose a farmer for a husband.”
The seven farm tenants welcomed having a resident landlord at Wistow and each gave up a field so that Tim and Ann could start farming on their own. Chickens, pigs and lambs all featured, followed shortly by potatoes, garden plants and soft fruit in what was the beginnings of Wistow garden centre. It was a challenge for them with little financial means to resolutely restore the Hall and its many outbuildings including St Wistan’s church.
Ann was actively involved in multiple charitable causes and was efficient and persuasive in fund-raising. She was loyal and supportive to Tim in his roles as High Sheriff and Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire – their self-effacing team-work, duty and public service to the County were inspirational and a shining example to others. She was recognised in 2003 by the University of Leicester with the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws for her immense contribution to the County in so many different ways.
However, Ann’s greatest joy and lasting legacy was her family. Her five children have
produced eleven grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren, Ann had a strong Christian faith throughout her life. In essence, she was hugely appreciated by all who knew her.
The service was led by Canon Philip O’ Reilly, the address was given by the former Bishop of Leicester The Right Reverend Tom Butler and the Blessing by The Right Reverend Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester.
From the Langtons Newsletter,
Richard Brooks
Keith Elsley
