Ursula Keyes was a prominent Chester resident who set up a Charitable Trust up prior to her death in 1989 at the age of 75

Ursula was the only daughter of Sarah and Edward Keyes and attended the Queen' School from 1929-34. Her father was a well known businessman active in city life who became sheriff, Alderman and later Lord Mayor of the city.

Miss Keyes was particularly interested in the arts and theatre. She worked with her father, who founded and developed The Royalty Theatre. In its heyday many nationally known stars appeared there. During her lifetime Miss Keyes supported innumerable charities, usually without public knowledge or acclaim and was always ready to help and support worthy causes.

 

She showed interest in anything medical and was fascinated by new technology and keen to foster research. The Charitable Trust that she set up has its roots in supporting the medical needs of the local community. This included, for instance, a large donation of £200,000 to establish the new Ursula Keyes Breast Care Centre at the Countess of Chester Hospital. This is just one of a great number of donations, large and small, that have been made over the years to individuals and organisations in the Chester area.