Since Christmas, three legends of Irish sport horse and Irish Draught breeding have passed away: Timmy Sullivan of Abbeyleix, John Alexander from Ballymena and Alfie Patterson of Saintfield. All three had outstanding success in the breeding and showing of superb horses.

Timmy Sullivan will long be remembered for the likes of the Crannagh Hero Merry Mate and Greenvale Champion Warren Lass.

Champions produced by John Alexander include Seafin Lady and The Blue Lady.

The enthusiastic Alfie Patterson had his best success with the superb mare Panarose Two who took the Breeders Championship at Dublin. He won the Pembroke Cup on four occasions there for the best exhibitor-bred young horse.

All three men were pleasant and assuring presences at shows around the country. They will long be missed and remembered by many.