Maimie Paterson was presented with the NSA Scotland Silver Salver award in 2018 for her 'outstanding contribution to the sheep industry'
Breed societies and farmers have paid tribute to a ‘stalwart' farming figure, Helen ‘Maimie' Paterson, who died on Sunday, July 27.
Aged 77, she died at home in Dunblane following a ‘short illness'.
Ms Paterson had previously served as president of the Beltex Sheep Society, chair of the National Sheep Association and as a council member of the British Blue Cattle Society.
She also held the position of vice-president of the Royal Highland Show for 2023/24.
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The Beltex Sheep Society said her passing represented a ‘significant loss to the livestock industry'.
"Maimie was a remarkable woman who offered guidance, advice, and unwavering support to many across the agricultural community.
"She will be sorely missed, and we are incredibly grateful for the immense contributions she made to the society over many years."
Ms Paterson was recognised for her contributions to the sheep industry in 2018, having been awarded NSA Scotland's Silver Salver award.
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Auchenlay
Operating under the herd name Auchenlay at Upper Auchenlay Farm, which she established with her husband Robert, Ms Paterson was also a renowned breeder of British Blue cattle.
Announcing the death of its ‘long-serving' council member, the British Blue Cattle Society thanked her for her ‘many years of involvement'.
"[We] are truly saddened to share the news of Maimie Paterson's passing.
"Maimie has been a stalwart of the agricultural industry for many years.
"Her contributions to the society and to the wider farming community were considerable and well-recognised.
The society said her death would leave ‘a vacuum that can never be filled.'
"We are deeply indebted to Maimie."
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