My mother, Clare Allen, who has died aged 62, was an unfailingly dignified woman with an elegant appearance, incredible intellect, a warm nature and a sparky sense of humour. She had an unbounded interest in history and politics, and retained a passion for the arts throughout her life.
Born in Hammersmith, west London, Clare was the only child of Clifton Stephenson, an RAF officer, and his wife Kathleen, a musician. Her parents had been based in France during the second world war, and Clare spent her early childhood in Paris, and in South Africa with Kathleen’s family.
She was educated at Claremont school (now Claremont Fan Court school) in Esher, Surrey, and later moved to London, where she attended the Central School of Speech and Drama. Here she met Steve Allen, a fellow student. They married in 1972 and had three children: Esme was born in 1973 and Tom and I followed in 1976. Although Steve and Clare later divorced, they remained good friends.
My twin, Tom, was diagnosed with severe autism and requires full-time specialist care. Clare devoted herself to ensuring he had access to the best support available. She worked tirelessly with Tom’s social workers and care team, even rallying the support of her local MP, to ensure his needs were met.
Clare returned to study and in 1988 was awarded a 2:1 in history of art and design from Manchester Polytechnic (now Manchester Metropolitan University). She was a regular visitor to the city’s Royal Exchange Theatre, and frequently attended art exhibitions in Manchester and London. After graduating, she worked as a researcher for an executive recruitment company.
She spent her spare weekends visiting her children, who cherished her company. In recent years she enjoyed trips to Norway and Switzerland with her family. She was also adored by her two young grandchildren, who knew her as Nan-Nan. We all survive her.
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