'˜Earth angel' wife died in her heartbroken husband's arms

Mandy Twells collapsed at her Bolsover home last week, complaining she couldn’t breathe and died minutes later while being held by her husband Danny.

The 47-year-old property manager at Bolsover Castle had suffered from high blood pressure and was taking medication, plus she was also due to undergo a routine operation to remove non-malignant tumours from her ovaries.

But her family and friends were stunned by her sudden death.

Danny, her husband of two years, said: “She was never ill before this, she had high blood pressure but that was under control. She collapsed on the floor saying she couldn’t breathe and she died in my arms.

“The paramedics turned up but I knew that she had gone. I was just numb and devastated - she was a burst of energy, a life force and full of life, just a beautiful person and she was my world.

“Mandy will be sadly and deeply missed, she was like an earth angel. I could angry about the what ifs but it won’t bring her back,” added the 54-year-old.

It has since been confirmed that Mandy had died from a blood clot on her lungs.

The couple had met seven years ago online, and had chosen to move to Bolsover after visiting the castle on a day trip.

Mandy secured a job at the castle, while Danny became a funeral director at Ken Gregory and Sons Funeral Directors.

Such was her popularity a memorial service is set to be held at Bolsover Castle.

Danny said: “They’ve never had a funeral there but she’s made such an impression, I was gobsmacked.”

Steve Bax, of English Heritage, said: “She was thoroughly dedicated to her role, the team and the castle, and will be missed by her friends, colleagues and visitors.

“Her memorial service will take place at Bolsover Castle, as a mark of respect for a much-loved colleague.”

The funeral procession will begin at Ken Gregory’s on Station Road at 10.45am on July 11.