A FORBIDDEN wartime romance between a German woman and a British soldier is set to live on, thanks to a Bournemouth funeral director.

Jutta France, who died in a Bournemouth nursing home earlier this year at the age of 85, was born on February 13, 1927, spending most of her early life in Iserlohn. A bright scholar, Jutta obtained a job as a translator for the British occupying troops, paving the way for a meeting with future husband John, a non-commissioned REME officer.

Despite a difficult courtship, John eventually won Jutta’s parents over and the couple wed in 1948. Sadly Jutta’s soul mate passed away in 1984.

Following John’s death, she dedicated the rest of her life to charity work in the Dorset area.

Her cherished keepsakes including her husband’s war medals, as well as old photographs and letters documenting their lives and romance, are now featured in a new exhibition devoted to relationships in post-war Europe.

Earlier this month Bill Scott, principal funeral director at CPJ Field & Co, took part in the handover ceremony of Jutta’s personal effects at the REME Museum of Technology in Reading.

The exhibition ‘To my dearest ... Letters from War’ will be open until the end of August.

Mr Scott said: “We always aim to fulfil family wishes as best we can and contacting the museum was the least we could do.”

Brenda Baker, Jutta’s friend and executor, was also at the presentation ceremony.

Paying tribute to “a true friend and confidante,” Brenda told the Daily Echo: “Jutta was an extremely strong character.

“Through her work, charity commitments and hobbies, she formed many lasting friendships.”

Jutta’s funeral service was held at Bournemouth Crematorium on January 17.