THE news of three recent deaths was learned with much sadness by the world of equestrianism in Ireland this week but none more so than that of dressage judge and coach Debbie Osborough.

The 52-year-old, who died suddenly on Monday, was immensely popular as a coach, working with Dressage Ireland members through to those competing with the riding club and pony club movements throughout Northern Ireland.

Dressage Ireland, its Northern Region and its Judges’ Committee, all paid tribute to Debbie on social media this week with the last-named body highlighting her willingness to help, further stating that she brought “honesty, professionalism and commonsense to all her work for the committee.”

A posting on the Facebook page of the East Down Branch of The Pony Club stated: “Debbie was one of our most beloved pony club instructors. She never declined an opportunity to help young people and was always so very kind and positive.”

The following was posted on the Debbie Osborough Equestrian Facebook page on Tuesday by Debbie’s daughter Sarah. “Yesterday, our world ended when we lost my amazing Mum. I’m not sure the shock of this will ever go away. There are no words that can ever describe the pain and heartbreak we are feeling. Thank you to everyone for the lovely messages we have already received. I don’t know how we even begin to go on without her. Life will never be the same.”

Sympathy is extended to Sarah, to Debbie’s husband Ken, son Ben, his wife Melissa and their sons, Michael and Harry. Her funeral service will be held in Regent Street Methodist Church, Newtownards on Wednesday next, December 21st at 3.00pm with funeral afterwards to Roselawn Crematorium.

Peaceful

Veterinary surgeon Sandy (Alexander Donaldson) Pottie, who moved to Scotland some years ago, died peacefully in Perth Royal Infirmary last Thursday week, December 8th.

When living in Fintona, Sandy was particularly well-known among the show jumping fraternity, acting in an official capacity at most major shows and travelling the country to pony-measuring sessions. His wife Liz, to whom sympathy is extended as it is to other family members, was very much involved in getting the shows at Ecclesville up and running.

While not personally involved with horses, Shane O’Neill had become well-known amongst the equestrian community through his popular Laois Catering units. The Portarlington businessman sadly died following a drowning accident last Sunday while on holiday in Gran Canaria.