North Down Alliance representatives have expressed their sadness following news Lady Dufferin has passed away.

Lady Dufferin, the Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava, also known as Lindy Guinness, resided at Clandeboye House in Bangor within the Clandeboye Estate, home to a number of charities.

Alliance North Down MLA Andrew Muir said she had lived a full life.

“Lady Dufferin played a massively positive role in North Down from her home at Clandeboye House, where I was lucky to enjoy lunch with her whilst Mayor. Her lovely paintings are still used on the Clandeboye Estate Yoghurt and her Estate is home to so many ventures, including Conservation Volunteers and Clandeboye Festival with Camerata Ireland, the Ava Gallery and more.

“Lady Dufferin passes on a strong legacy upon which can be built in the future. With funeral arrangements unfortunately restricted due to public health restrictions, I hope we will all be able to gather to celebrate her life sooner rather than later once the pandemic passes, remembering a life well lived.”

“The sad passing of Lady Dufferin represents the end of an era and a remarkable life as talented artist, conservationist and businesswoman leaving a powerful contribution,” added Alliance North Down MP Stephen Farry.

“The on-going success of Clandeboye Estate, involving so many thriving enterprises such as Clandeboye Yoghurt and the popular courtyard is a great testament to Lady Dufferin’s contribution to North Down, coupled with a passionate commitment to the arts and conservation.

“Encouraging the Conservation Volunteers to set-up within Clandeboye Estate in 1975 was a great initiative and forever remembered as one of many initiatives championed by Lady Dufferin.”