EPITOMISING bravery and teaching us all a collective lesson in courage and fortitude, the incredible force that was well-known horsewoman and farmer, Deirdre Bourns, passed away on Monday.

Married to Richard for 43 years, and mother of Andrew and Christopher, an outpouring of heartfelt tributes fittingly marked the passing of a most remarkable woman who touched the lives of countless people and animals in the most positive way imaginable.