FORMER midwife and GP receptionist, Betty Nicholson, has died at the age of 91.

Born in Caithness, Elizabeth, or Betty as she was more fondly known, came from a staunch Presbyterian family, and was the second of six children.

Her father died when she was a teenager and the family moved to Aberdeen where her lifelong interest in sporting activities flourished.

Following her school education, Betty studied nursing at the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and went on to become a midwife which involved working in some of Aberdeen's most deprived areas, especially near the harbour.

"In 1949 she found herself in London, seeing off her sister Catherine who was travelling to Uganda to practice nursing. Staying near to University College Hospital she enquired if there were any vacancies, and was delighted to be accepted," said Daniel Campbell, organist and choir master at Richmond Hill St Andrew's Church, Bournemouth.

She met Jimmie Nicholson, a young medical student, and they spent their free time taking advantage of theatre visits thanks to nurses receiving complimentary unsold tickets, and going to Lords Cricket ground to watch some of the West Indies matches.

Betty and Jimmie were married in Aberdeen in 1952 and after their honeymoon in the Lake District, Jimmie returned to Germany to do his National Service as a doctor with the 3rd Tank Regiment. Betty joined him the following year and it was there that their first child, Iain was born.

Upon returning to the UK Jimmie established himself as a GP in Strouden Avenue, Bournemouth. The surgery and waiting room were downstairs in the family home and Betty acted as the receptionist, telephonist and secretary, as well as being mother to three more boys, James, Andrew and Robbie.

Betty and Jimmie were keen golfers and were members of Broadstone Golf Club for more than 50 years, making many friends on the greens.

"In retirement they travelled extensively throughout the UK in their camper van 'Rosie', golf clubs always at the ready for the unexpected course which they might come across by chance,"said Daniel.

Scottish country dancing was another pastime, and again many friendships were forged on the dance floor. 'Rosie' the camper van was replaced by cruise ships and various foreign places were explored, including the Middle East, as well as parts of Europe to visit some of their sons and grandchildren.

"Betty enjoyed monthly meetings with the Magpies group of ladies. She was also an active member of the former St Andrew's United Reformed Church in Exeter Road, and along with her husband made their mark in the new joint fellowship of Richmond Hill St Andrew's. She was a lovely lady with a ready smile and kind words for all," said Daniel.

Betty passed away on July 26 and her memorial service was held at Richmond Hill St Andrew's.