We Remember ... Heroes of the Faith at St. Michael's - Ida Doddridge

IDA DOROTHY DODDRIDGE
16 May 1919 – 12 June 1998

Ida Doddridge came from Devon but lived for many years in Sutton Court; initially on the top floor but towards the end of her life in one of the Porters’ Lodges on the ground floor. She did not speak much about her background but Beatrice Harrop, a great friend of Ida’s, thought that she may have been honoured. And indeed the London Gazette for 2 January 1956 states that Ida Dorothy Doddridge was awarded the British Empire Medal (Military Division). She had been a Staff Sergeant in the Women’s Royal Army Corps, Territorial Army. She used to get tickets for the Trooping the Colour rehearsals, which she and Beatrice regularly attended.

She washed and ironed the altar linen and was on the coffee rota. She always made sure that we had poppies available for Remembrance Sunday. Her book of recipes, based on her and other parishioners’ favourite meals is still used. Music was a favourite pastime and she was an enthusiastic supporter of the West London Sinfonia, handing out details of future concerts to everyone who shared her love of music. Finally, in her will she left a legacy to St Michael’s to help buy a Grand Piano. Under the piano lid there is a plaque which records her and others’ generous gift.