HAPPY-go-lucky Karen James has died aged 44 in hospital surrounded by her devoted family who did not leave her side.

She suffered a spontaneous bleed on the brain which caused other health complications and she died days later on February 13 at Great Western Hospital in Swindon. Hundreds of people attended her funeral on Friday at St Mary’s Church in Marlborough.

The huge ABBA and Grease fan lived with her father Sammie James, 76, in Purlyn Acre and is the daughter of the late Queenie James, who died aged 65 from cancer in 2008.

She was doted on and cared for by all by her siblings; Charlotte Dobie, Lily Maddison, Betty James, John James and Bert James, who took over looking after Miss James, who had Down’s Syndrome, when their mother died.

Miss James, who was born in Savernake, went to the day centre at the former youth club at St Margaret’s Mead which she really enjoyed. She also struck up a special bond with Di Walker who previously worked there and enjoyed doing Miss James’ nails.

Miss James could also be found in Marlborough having coffee and cake with friends and will be fondly remembered for her love of piling up magazines on the sofa. She also loved beads and tissues.

Sister Betty James said: “After mum died we took it in turns to look after her and she was loved by all of us. My favourite memories are going to McDonald’s and taking her shopping. I would always have her over every Saturday and Sunday and we would watch Grease and Abba.

“She loved going swimming, bowling, going to the cinema and doing her own shopping at Tesco. She was a huge part of our lives and loved and cared for equally by us all.”

Sister Charlotte Dobie, 55, said her best memories will be of her and her sister being at home together too.

She said: “Being at home having our girlie nights together. Doing her hair and she loved her nails being done, her nails were so important to her. Nothing was too hard when looking after her. She was so special, she was a little princess.

“She loved going to the cinema and watching Christmas pantomimes and she loved swimming.

“She was mum’s pride and joy and the baby of the family and we are proud of our culture and a very close family.”

Donations if desired in memory of Miss James can be made to Cancer Research UK c/o funeral director Paula Winchcombe, Charles S Winchcombe & Son, The Parade, Marlborough.