Once their daughter Alexandra was in university, the Carters began to spend winters in Spain, where they often offered a warm refuge to friends from the chilly climate of England. During his later years, Carter spent much time at his drawing table and his easel, creating images of dancers and dancing that he called "choreographics." Besides drawing and painting, he enjoyed playing the piano, reading, and gardening. The couple returned permanently to Bournemouth when Carter's health began to deteriorate from the effects of cancer. After several years of illness, eased by the devoted care of his wife, he died peacefully at home at the age of 88.Mary Clarke, "Alan Carter," obituary The Stage (London), 22 September 2009.
