Much-loved Newark Operatic Society member of Southwell dies aged 76

A long-serving member of Newark Amateur Operatic Society has died.

Jill Ball, 76, of Southwell, had a long career as a teacher in Nottingham, and was a dedicated member of the operatic society.

Jill met her husband, Mick, in 1963 at Culham teacher training college where he was a student.

The pair married in 1968 and moved to Ravenshead soon after. They have lived in Southwell for 16 years.

Jill taught needlework at Elliot Durham School in Nottingham.

She also worked in primary schools in Calverton and Burton Joyce. But she will arguably be most remembered for her performances with Newark Amateur Operatic Society.

She had several lead roles, including in South Pacific, Fiddler On The Roof and Oliver!

She performed many shows with her sister, Wendy Turk, who died several years ago from cancer.

Mick said: “Jill was vivacious, the centre of attraction and well loved by all, including her friends and family.

“She’s going to be a great loss.”

Jill, who died on June 16, leaves her husband, Mick, two children and three grandchildren.