Brooke, Betty (née Cassie)
1922-2010

Born in Aberdeen, the daughter of a marine engineer, she was educated at Aberdeen High School for Girls. She served during the War in the WRNS, being commissioned after the war. During her naval service she met and married the Rev. Herbert Brooke. From 1957 until his sudden death in 1966, he was minister of Aquila Road Methodist church, St. Helier Jersey. After his death she extended her career as a freelance journalist, by becoming Jersey's BBC. correspondent and a regular political columnist for the Jersey Evening Post under the title 'An Eye on the States'. For 45 years she also contributed a weekly inspirational article, many of which were subsequently published in three volumes.

She was the inspiration for the setting up of Victim Support in Jersey and its first Chairperson. During the four years when she served as a member of the States, her passion for social justice was also expressed in the legislation she promoted on gay rights and criminal injury compensation. She was a local preacher for 50 years and enjoyed a close friendship with Benita Kyle.

Sources
  • Jersey Evening Post, 10 February 2010
  • Methodist Recorder, 8 April 2010
  • Guardian, 21 April 2010