The East Sussex spot was praised for its reduced cloud cover, and low air and light pollution. Old Hastings House, where Ms Willett lived, says she died "gently" on Friday night.

Hastings House offers numerous room packages ... The manor house is a pleasantly rambling old place loaded with charm and character, surrounded by 9 hectares (22 acres) of lush woods and pretty ...

A choir comprising members of the Hastings Winkle Club sang carols for the residents of Old Hastings House on Christmas Day maintaining a tradition which has lasted for more than 40 years.