Retired schoolteacher leaves generous donation in her will that will fund nearly ten missions

Miriam Craggs, from Wingate, formerly Wheatley Hill, was a much-loved primary school teacher, friend and neighbour, and had a close relationship with her brothers and sisters-in-law.

She enjoyed going on holiday, gardening, and regularly stayed in her static caravan in Teesdale.

At the age of 54, unfortunately she was diagnosed with Leukemia, which at the time, she was told was incurable.

Following treatment, she managed to be in remission, however she started experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, which led to her living in a nursing home for the final few years of her life.

It was during this time she decided to put in her will that a percentage of her money would be shared among charities, and the charities would be chosen by her brother Peter Craggs.

Peter, 75, from Ferryhill said: “She was a very generous and caring person and supported several charities throughout her life. When she made her will, she said she would like some of the money going to children’s charities because she was a schoolteacher, and the rest of it was our choosing. We wanted to give the money to local charities, and we know that GNAAS is self-funded, so that is why we decided to give them a generous donation.”

Peter and his wife Greta Craggs, 73, recently visited GNAAS’ base near Eaglescliffe and met some of the charity’s critical care team, who gave them a tour of their helicopter.

He said: “We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. It was very informative, and we were impressed by the facilities. The staff were so polite and nice and I was lucky enough to sit inside the helicopter. We wish the charity all the best for the future.”

Sophie Snowdon, fundraising lead – east at GNAAS, said: “It was a pleasure to meet Peter and Greta and hear some lovely stories about Miriam. She sounds like she was a very selfless and caring person who was always helping others. Even now, she is helping us continue to be there for those in need across the region. We hope Miriam’s family take pride in knowing that her generous legacy will be able to fund nearly ten missions. That’s potentially ten lives saved, and ten families kept together as a result.”