Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi visited the UK last month to raise further support for her fight for a democratic Burma, and took time out for a reunion with her family, who live in Warminster.

Adrian and Lucinda Phillips, of Warminster, organised a 67th birthday party for their sister-in-law on her first visit to Britain since 1988.

After returning to Burma the civil rights campaigner endured 15 years of house arrest. She was even unable to be with her husband Michael Aris, Mrs Phillips’ brother, when he died in 1999. Her sons, Alexander and Kim, grew up in Warminster and were pupils at Warminster School, living with Mr and Mrs Phillips while their father was working in America.

Last month, newly-elected to the Burmese parliament, Aung Sang Suu Kyi was reunited with many of her extended family. Mr Phillips, who with his wife used to publish books from their home in Vicarage Street, said: “We only had four weeks to prepare for her visit.

“We went with her to all the big events she attended, including her speech at Westminster Hall, she didn’t have much time for a rest on this trip, sadly.

“Usually we talk to her about family things to give her a break from the politics.”

Mrs Phillips added: “We helped to organise a big birthday party at her old Oxford college, St Hugh’s.

“It was nice for Suu to be able to see her family and friends again, including children and grandchildren she has never met.

“There aren’t too many people left in Warminster who can remember Suu from the time she spent here, but I am always being asked about how she is doing.”

Aung San Suu Kyi had the rare honour of addressing both houses of parliament, met Prince Charles and received an honorary degree from Oxford University.

l The Phillips’ are organising a lunch party at Warminster Rugby Club from 11am on July 14, with a stunt display by pilots from Semley-based Parajet International to raise funds for missionary nuns working in remote areas of Burma. Tickets from the TIC.