Batemans mourns its soul and spirit'

Patricia Bateman, director of Batemans Brewery in Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, died on 7 March after a brave fight against leukemia. Pat, who worked for the brewery for 50 years, was seen as the "soul and spirit" of the brewery, and helped ensure it maintained its independence in the late 1980s.

During her long spell at Batemans, Pat was responsible for a number of pub refurbishments and created new signage for pubs across the estate.

She particularly enjoyed the Great British Beer Festival; not just for the beer, but because of the chance to catch up with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Pat worked for the brewery until Christmas, demonstrating her dedication to the company and to the staff who held her in such high esteem.

Batemans workers said Pat was always first on the invitation list for staff weddings and parties ­ and her godchildren would have filled an aircraft hanger. At her funeral, which attracted 500 people, Pat was described as "feisty, determined, hard working and caring". She will be missed by her family, friends, colleagues and the trade.