TRIBUTES have poured in for Wicklow’s Wendy Maxine Herbst of Kilpoole Hill Farm, the home of Polo Wicklow, who died last Saturday afternoon at Magherabeg beach. Wendy tragically drowned attempting to save the family dog from choppy waters when she was out walking with one of her daughters.

The alarm was raised at 2pm after she got into difficulty and Greystones and Wicklow Coast Guard units were tasked to the scene, along with the Dublin-based Coast Guard helicopter R116, but Wendy’s body was sadly recovered from the waters at around 4pm. The well-known local figure was in her 80s and had 10 grandchildren from her five children, Marco, Siobhán, Fiona, Juliet and Orson.

Her husband Michael runs the farm where he established Polo Wicklow, Ireland’s only all-year round polo facility, in 1993.

Wendy was well-known for organising a 5km sea swim in Wicklow town, which acted as a fundraiser for Wicklow RNLI and was also a director of Herbst Software, a leading software provider founded by Michael.

In a tribute, Bunclody Polo Club wrote: “Our deepest condolences to the Herbst family on the tragic loss of Wendy. She was a gracious, warm, and welcoming presence, and her steadfast support of the polo community was always greatly appreciated by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”

The Bray Harriers also paid tribute, saying: “The Bray Harriers wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the Herbst family. Wendy was a true animal lover and a fantastic supporter of all things equestrian. She provided a very warm reception to the hunt on many occasions both in terms of hunting over the land, refreshments in the club house afterwards, as well as hosting many social events. Her energy and enthusiasm, her hard-working nature and her love of animals and her family have left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege to interact with Wendy. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”

Wendy’s funeral service was held on Friday morning at Church of Ireland, Church Hill, Wicklow Town and her family requested that any desired donations should be made to Wicklow RNLI.