FORMER Ipswich MP Ken Weetch is today mourning the loss of his wife Audrey after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

FORMER Ipswich MP Ken Weetch is today mourning the loss of his wife Audrey after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

Mrs Weetch had been ill for nearly eight years - the couple moved to Tooting in London two years ago so they could be nearer their daughter who helped to look after her.

Mrs Weetch, 73, was a teacher who carried on working while her husband was MP for Ipswich between 1974 and 1987.

However she was a strong supporter of her husband's work, and often joined him on engagements around the town.

When her condition was first diagnosed back in 2001, she bravely took the decision to tell Evening Star readers about the battle she was facing.

Two years ago she and her husband met the newspaper to explain why they were finally selling their beloved home in Ipswich to move to London to be nearer the family.

At the time Mr Weetch said: “There has never been any complaint from Audrey. She's accepted the situation and got on with it. The doctors say she's been a real trooper.”

Mr Weetch was not able to talk about his wife's death today, but friends said he was being supported by his family.

Current Ipswich MP Chris Mole worked for Mr Weetch in the 1970s, and was encouraged to become more active in politics by the couple.

He said today: “I was very sad to hear about Audrey's death. She was a great support to her husband and many people in and around Ipswich knew her very well.

“People will be thinking of Ken Weetch at this time - it is very sad.”