THE Northern Region of Eventing Ireland added a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ to the list of annual honours which were presented at the region’s awards ball in the Stormont Hotel, Belfast last Saturday. The first recipient of the perpetual silver cup which was bequeathed to the region was the redoubtable Vanne Campbell MBE who has devoted many years to the sport, seldom having missed a fixture in the 50 years. Riders from all around the country will recognise Vanne from her role as cross-country timekeeper and starter.

Most members of the Northern Region have known Vanne even longer from her devotion to Area 17 of The Pony Club, especially through her lengthy connection with the Iveagh Branch as District Commissioner. It was great to see Vanne at the Stormont Hotel where she received a standing ovation. Full report on 102.