THE Irish eventing community has lost a great supporter and friend with the passing of David Corbett, owner of longstanding event venue Tyrella, in Co Down.

David died peacefully at home after a lengthy illness which he was said to have battled with immense courage.

Dora Beacom, Northern Region event coordinator, posted a glowing tribute to her friend who will be farewelled today at Tyrella Parish Church.

“David was a great supporter of Eventing Ireland (Northern Region) whose wise counsel we were always happy to deploy,” she wrote.

“He loved seeing his parking fields at Tyrella filled with lorries and trailers on the day of an event and was always on hand to check if everything was going according to plan.

“David thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the competitors, owners and volunteers and sharing the history of our most iconic eventing location. He had the most amazing ‘engineering’ brain and was always developing gadgets and ideas to deal with construction or mechanical problems.

“However, he gained greatest satisfaction following (his children) John and Emily’s achievements academically, professionally and on the sports field and was very proud of (daughter-in-law)Hannah’s business venture.

“The entire eventing fraternity joins in sending deepest condolences to Iona, John, Emily and Hannah at this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers will be with them all in the difficult time ahead.”

Following a private family committal, a service of thanksgiving will be held in Tyrella Parish Church at 3pm today, Saturday.

A request for no flowers was made, but donations may be made in lieu if desired to Marie Curie c/o Charles Rourke and Sons, Funeral Directors, 51 Church Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6EH.