Edward Downes after his health declined following a hip replacement. Lady Downes was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer that metastasised to her liver, and given only weeks to live. Lady Downes wrote a letter to family explaining that she had decided against treatment and that: Sir Edward, aged 85, and Lady Downes, aged 74, ended their lives by assisted suicide at the Dignitas clinic in Zürich, Switzerland, on 10 July 2009. Although Joan did not want the children present, Dignitas encouraged it and "Ted and Joanie" were reported to be pleased when the time came. Their children issued a statement speaking of
Bobby Downes (footballer) academy during Downes' tenure included England international David Dunn, as well as future Watford player Martin Taylor. He left the position in July 2009, by mutual consent. Following this he took up a scouting role at Preston North End. In February 2013, he was appointed as the Head of Recruitment at Nottingham Forest. Source: Bobby Downes (footballer) Robert David Downes (born 18 August 1949) is an English former footballer, coach and manager, now Head of Recruitment at Nottingham Forest. He started his playing career as a left back, later becoming a left winger. After starting his career at West Bromwich