Margaret was also a friend of Elizabeth Poston who lived at Rooks Nest House until her death on 18 March 1987. Elizabeth was a great friend of E M Forster and thus provided a strong link to his heritage. Margaret was an author and many will have read her works including “Forster Country” which traces the early life of the internationally acclaimed author. This book also indicates the link with Highfield House where Elizabeth Poston was brought up and which was on the edge of a broader “Forster Country” until its demise with the coming of Stevenage New Town.
Margaret also gained the patronage of eminent literary supporters and politicians and councillors both locally and from further afield.
She remained on the FoFC Committee or worked closely with it up until only a few weeks before her death.
She will be remembered also for her work with the Betty Game Opportunities Trust which was set up in 2009 in memory of her dear friend, Open University graduate Betty Game. The Trust aims to give small grants to Stevenage students who need financial help, particularly those studying with the Open University.
Because of the pandemic, only 30 people were allowed to attend Margaret’s funeral, but her friends throughout the town, hope to hold a memorial event later in the year, which many more can attend. As Friends of the Forster Country, we hope to hold our own event to celebrate Margaret’s life.
Margaret will be sorely missed by many who admired her intellect, quiet determination, energy and dedication as well as valuing her friendship.
Her final resting place overlooks her beloved Forster Country