Tributes paid to Bride TT Teas stalwart Jean Wilson

Tributes have been paid to one of the founding figures behind the much-loved Bride Church TT Teas following the death of Jean Wilson at the age of 85.

Mrs Wilson, who passed away peacefully at Hospice Isle of Man on Monday, May 11 with family by her side, was described by organisers as a ‘lovely lady with a gentle nature’ who would be greatly missed by all connected with the famous TT refreshment stop.

Bride Church TT/MGP Teas shared the news in a heartfelt tribute, remembering Jean as one of the original founders of the venture, which has become a long-standing tradition for both bikers and locals during the TT and Manx Grand Prix periods.

The group said: ‘Jean would always be found in the kitchen making sandwiches to order but her talents extended far beyond that task.

‘She was an excellent baker and anybody who has consumed an afternoon tea will have enjoyed Jean’s home-made drop scones which will be irreplaceable.

‘She also made a very good lemon meringue pie which always sold out quickly.’

TT Teas first began in 1993 after Elizabeth Sheen, wife of then rector John Sheen, and Daphne Faithorne came up with the idea of opening Bride church hall during TT fortnight.

The Green Parrot tearooms had closed down, leaving few places in the north of the island for bikers travelling to the Point of Ayre to stop for refreshments.

More than three decades later, Bride TT Teas remains a popular fixture on the TT calendar.

Jean was also a devoted member of Bride Church, serving as organist there for more than 70 years.

Her obituary described her as the beloved wife of the late Ron, much-loved mother to Jill and Dave, adored nana to Polly, Bill, Aalin, Feena and Orry, and mother-in-law to Clive and Anita.

The tribute added that she was ‘a great friend to many’.

Her son Dave has also appealed for help identifying a photograph of Jean sitting on a Vespa scooter believed to have been taken at Kimmeragh Farm, saying the family is unsure whether she actually rode the scooter or was simply posing for the picture.

A celebration service for Jean Wilson will take place at Bride Church on Thursday, May 21 at noon, followed by a private family burial.