THE son of a wartime nurse and prominent local women’s institute member has paid tribute to her following her death.

Mary Mauline Alban died at the age of 99 at Llandough Hospital on July 5 following a short illness.

Mrs Alban worked at Sully Hospital during the Second World War and lived in Penarth for more than 70 years.

She supported a number of local groups such as the Penarth Women’s Institute and played for Windsor Bowling Club where the Molly Alban Salver, first presented in 1981 was named after her.

Known as “Molly” she was born in Abertillery on April 20, 1918.

At the outbreak of the Second World War, Molly transferred to Sully Hospital where she was subjected to fire from German aircraft on bombing raids to Barry docks.

The nursing staff attended local dances where she meet her husband Vivian, an officer in the Territorial Army 53rd home guard stationed in Penarth.

They married in October 1944 and made their family home in Lavernock Road and had two boys, Roger and Stuart.

Her son, Roger Alban, said: “Molly never forgot her stay in Sully and throughout her life supported many local activities.

“She was a great supporter of the Sully hospital fete and also served as president of the Glamorgan County Women’s Bowling Association.

“In later years, Molly’s mobility was in decline due to arthritis and following a series of falls, Molly agreed that it was no longer safe for her to remain living at home.” Mr Alban said his mother had a “comfortable and loving” two-and-a-half-years at Ty Gwyn nursing home.

Her funeral will take place at All Saints Church, Penarth on Monday, July 31 at 10.15am.