THE family of Christine Angelidi, who died on April 24, aged 77, have paid tribute to an adventurous and loving woman.

Mrs Angelidi, nee Simpson, was born in Greenbank Road, Darlington, and despite her travels, always called Darlington her home.

The Northern Echo:

Christine Angelidi at Dodmire School, Darlington, either late 1940s or early 1950s

After attending Dodmire and then Eastbourne schools in Darlington, Mrs Angelidi secured a job with Barclays bank in London, training the cashiers to work with the early computers. Her competence in the role meant she was invited to take a job in France, teaching computer work to the French banking cashiers. Despite only arriving with an O-level in French, she was fluent within a short time, and stayed in France for six months.

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Then a two-week holiday to Greece was to change her life. She met her husband-to-be, who was a waiter, and stayed on, living in Thessaloniki.

The couple had two sons, Angelos and Paul. Mrs Angelidi flew home to Darlington to have both children, then took them back to Greece to live.

The Northern Echo:

Christine Angelidi with her grandpa, also from Darlington

When her sons were older, Mrs Angelidi taught English in Greece, particularly to business people.

The family came back to Darlington and Mrs Angelidi was a dinner lady at Eastbourne School, she also worked at Risbey’s in Darlington and at Darlington Bedding Centre.

Mrs Angelidi was sister to Paul and Linda. She also leaves daughters-in-law Elliw and Katy and four grandchildren, Willow, Evie, Ruby and Nel.

The Northern Echo:

Christine Angelidi with sons Paul and Angelos

Son Paul said: “She lived life to the full and had many adventures. She had some amazing stories, including featuring in The Northern Echo after she had witnessed some devastating floods while in Spain.

“She was a lovely, kind person who leaves a hole in all our hearts. She will be missed so very much.”

The Northern Echo:

Christine Angelidi on her wedding day in December 1973, in England

A private service has taken place, but a memorial is planned in Darlington at a later date.

Mrs Angelidi had been living in Y Felinheli, North Wales, before she died.