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Death of passionate horsewoman Diane (56)
Diane Holt obit 2
A PASSIONATE horsewoman, who was a talented rider and a well respected equestrian judge, has died aged 56.
Mrs Diane Holt inherited her love of horses from her mother and over the years entered countless shows and competitions, competing in the Lady Hunter and Hacking classes. When her competing days came to an end, she trained to become a judge working mainly with the Side Saddle Association.
Mrs Holt kept horses throughout her life and has passed on her love of all things equestrian to her daughter Pippa, 21.
Paying tribute to her mum, Pippa said: “My mum lived for horses, she adored them and the house is filled with cups and trophies she has won over the years. But she was also very much a people person.
“She was funny, lively and bubbly, she loved being around people and was a very caring person.”
Born in Blacko, Mrs Holt lived in Simonstone for many years before moving to Altham seven years ago. A former pupil of Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, she trained to become a medical secretary at Nelson and Colne College. The pinnacle of her career came when she was appointed practice manager at Padiham Medical Centre.
A regular visitor to the Horse of the Year Show, Mrs Holt, also a dog lover whose constant companions were her Bedlington Terrier Freddie and Jack Russell Harvey, was guiding Pippa towards the world of competing in horse shows.
Pippa added: “I have two horses of my own and am preparing to take part in several shows in the summer. I hope she would have been proud of me.”
Mrs Holt also has a son Chris who is entering his third year as the professional at Padiham Cricket Club. She also leaves her husband Geoff, her father Ian and a sister Carolyn.
There was standing room only at Mrs Holt’s funeral which took place at St John’s Church, Read. As a final tribute two black horses led the hearse to the church.
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Weather for Clitheroe
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 5 C to 11 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: North west
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Light showers
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