Glow Worm 3rd Quarter 2011

45 "People know me, like me and loved my mother."

But it is a role that comes with some terrific responsibilities as Jessica has revealed for the first time as she looks back over 30 years of the Glastonbury Children's Festival.

There were times – particular when festivals were hit by terrible weather – that the work of the charity itself was threatened and it was Bella's extraordinary commitment to the charity that kept it going.

At times she refused to take a wage and even occasionally would sell some of the famous Prime Minister's favoured paintings that had been left to her, but which still reside on the walls of Chartwell, the Kent home he shared with his wife Clementine until his death.

"After Churchill died it was decided that the grandchildren could each select a number of paintings that were displayed on the walls of Chartwell," said Jessica.

"My mum was very clever in that she didn't choose one large painting but several smaller ones.

"They have stayed at Chartwell where they can be appreciated by the public, they are not personal possessions of ours.

"It didn't happen often, but occasionally when the need was there, mum would sell one, using the funds to keep the work of the Children's World going."

The National Trust, which was presented with Chartwell following Churchill's death, has purchased the paintings that Arabella sold.

Others still remain on the walls of Chartwell.

So can Jessica see herself following her mother's example when she is in charge of the festivals?

"I just hope that I can do as much good as did with the paintings, when it's my turn," she said.