Beloved children’s author’s legacy lives on

The legacy of children’s author AA Milne’s granddaughter will live on as her charity continues to boost disabled people.

Clare Milne, who lived in Otterton, set up a trust in 2002 to use the funds from her grandfather’s books to help fund projects in Devon and Cornwall.

Clare was the daughter of Christopher Robin Milne, the author’s son, who famously inspired the character of the same name in the Winnie the Pooh stories – but her family and friends say she was very much her own person.

Clare’s mother Lesley, the president of the trust, said: “We celebrate a remarkable person – a person who bubbled with humour and enjoyed life to the full.

“Clare loved people, she enjoyed time with everyone – laughing, hugging, sociable fun, particularly if it involved a party and a glass of wine.

“My dream is to know that my girl will be remembered for something that brings happiness where it is most needed.”

The Clare Milne Trust offers grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 for disability projects in the South West.

It has helped more than 250 charities over the last decade, and also set up the Clare Milne Centre in Exeter, where there is a day centre for the disabled.

Clare died on October 27 last year at the age of 56. An inquest at Devon County Hall last Wednesday looked into the circumstances of her death.

Coroner Dr Elizabeth Earland found that Clare had died from natural causes due to a heart abnormality.

Clare had suffered from a number of conditions, including cerebral palsy and kyphosis, which meant she required 24-hour care.

Her bungalow was specially modified for her needs, and the trust is now looking at using it to provide respite care for others.

A service to remember Clare was held in Exeter Cathedral yesterday afternoon (Thursday).

To apply for a grant or learn more, visit the trust’s website at www.claremilnetrust.com.