Deborah, known in her family as ‘Debo’, was the youngest of the notorious Mitford sisters, and she grew up in the shadow of their exploits and scandals.

In 1941 she married Lord Andrew Cavendish, younger son of the Duke of Devonshire of Chatsworth. However, Andrew’s older brother William was killed in action in 1944, so Andrew became heir to the dukedom, becoming 11th Duke of Devonshire in 1950. Debo therefore became a Duchess, and, in her role, she transformed Chatsworth, one of the great stately homes of England, making it a profitable business concern. She was a woman of striking poise and charm, known for her impeccable taste and astute mind. She had seven children, although only three lived to be adults.