TRIBUTES have been paid to Cumbrian young farmer and well-known stocksperson, Hannah Brown, who has died.

The sad news of her passing has sent shock waves not just through the farming, but the whole community this last week.

Ms Brown farmed at Dufton, near Appleby with her fiance Ben Richardson and their young daughter Millie.

She was a keen stockwoman, often helping on the North of England Mule Sheep Association (NEMSA) show stand at local and national events.

Social media tributes have flowed in with many remembering her as a ‘true legend on the show circuit’, and ‘one in a million’.

A statement from NEMSA Hawes Branch said: “Hannah was raised up full of NEMSA. Her mum Val was branch secretary and dad Martin branch chairman.

“Hannah from a young age loved the Mule sheep, showing her parents sheep, and grandads, then buying and showing her own with great success. I like to believe there is such a thing as heaven, so God you have gained one true stockperson. All our deepest thoughts go out to all Hannah’s family and friends at this sad time. Hannah you were truly one in a million.”

The Northern Beltex Club said: “We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear the heartbreaking news of the passing of Hannah Brown. A life of a young lady taken far too early who frankly could of achieved anything and who has many achievements already under her belt that some could only dream of. Her love for sheep and cattle was second to none and her stockmanship skills just some of the best. Her smiling face, loud shout and willingness to help anyone will be missed forever. Our thoughts are with Ben, Millie, Martin and Val at this very sad time. Sleep tight and shine bright.”

The British Limousin Cattle Society said Hannah was a young enthusiastic professional woman in the agricultural industry. “She was a bubbly, bright, happy person with a positive competitive streak in cattle showing. Hannah will be greatly missed.”