A WIDOW has published her husband’s life story after spending five years researching his adventures in the RAF to help him cope with dementia.

Sarah Morris started writing about her husband as a way of recording his memories before they were lost to his illness.

She also hoped the process would be therapeutic and help him fight the condition.

Now, Mrs Morris, aged 81, of Spinningfields, Heaton, has published the book, Bill Morris — A Lucky Life, although tragically Mr Morris did not live to see the final product after losing his battle against illness in 2009. She said: “It has been like a catharsis to me.

“I wouldn’t have known all these stories about him if I hadn’t done it. I feel sad I can’t show it to him.”

Mrs Morris started the book after encouragement from her tutor, Brian Mills, when she started a computer course at the Halliwell UCAN Centre He is credited as a co-author for his help with the illustrations, graphics, and lay-out.

Mr Morris served as a gunner and wireless operator in the 342 Free French Lorraine Squadron, mainly flying in a Boston medium tactical bomber.

It was dangerous work and the average life expectancy was about three weeks. His proudest moment was his instrumental role in the D-Day Normandy landings.

He was involved in dropping smokescreen canisters on the Channel to conceal the advancing Allied fleet.

The book is available for £8.99 from Sweetens Bookshop.

Some of the proceeds from the book will go to the Friendship Cafe, a dementia charity which meets at Horwich Resource Centre, and some to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.