TRIBUTES have been paid to Mary Heffernan (née Walsh) from Monkstown, Cork, who sadly passed away peacefully after a short illness in the Cork University Hospital on October 27th. A former chair of the Highland Lodge Riding Club and most recently chair of the Riding for the Disabled, she was hailed as a “remarkable and tireless volunteer”.

Hitchmough’s Equestrian Centre wrote a lengthy tribute to Mary, saying: “We’re shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague Mary Heffernan, and we extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Aidan and her children, Jill and Robert, extended family and wide circle of friends. The sheer force of her spirit and her expertise will be intensely missed, leaving an undeniable void in the local equestrian community here at Hitchmough’s.

“Mary’s lifelong devotion to others benefited countless lives over decades. She was a remarkable and tireless volunteer, steering the Highland Lodge Riding Club to notable success, serving as the former Chairman of the Riding Club, and dedicating herself most recently to her vital role as Chairman of the Riding for the Disabled. She gave so much of herself to the sport and the people she loved.

“For nearly three decades, Mary has been a cherished and beloved member of our community. She first walked through our gates to bring her children to ride over 30 years ago and remained a steadfast presence ever since. We will profoundly miss her passion, her fierce spirit, and the unmistakable, honest light she brought into the lives of everyone who knew her.”

Highland Lodge Riding Club also paid tribute: “All of us at Highland Lodge Riding Club are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our member and former Chairperson, Mary Heffernan. Mary embodied everything that makes riding clubs what they are - always supporting fellow members and cheering them on, taking part and giving so freely her time to ensure events went smoothly and were enjoyed by everyone. She was deeply committed to our club and always brightened every event, meeting and social outing simply by being there.”

A cremation service took place on Thursday, October 30th.