Racing pays tribute following death of Brenda Norris

The funeral mass of Brenda Norris, who died on Sunday, will take place on Wednesday morning at 11.00 at Dominican College Church, Newbridge, County Kildare.

Norris was the mother of well-known racing photographer Caroline and also widow to successful trainer Paddy.

She was the daughter of Frank Vickerman, a Yorkshire wool merchant who owned the legendary three-time Gold Cup winner Cottage Rake. He was not the only high-class horse which her family will be remembered owning, as Norris’s mother Constance's colours were carried by Vincent O’Brien’s first Irish Classic winner Chamier who won the 1953 Irish Derby.

The funeral mass will be followed by burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, Suncroft, County Kildare.

Norris is survived by son Robert, daughters Caroline and Ines, son-in-law Pat as well as grandchildren Michael, Vickie and her fiance Darren. She is also sadly missed by her sister Oonagh.

Among those expressing their sympathies to the Norris family was Horse Racing Ireland boss Brian Kavanagh, who tweeted on Monday: “Sad news today of the passing of Mrs Brenda Norris.

“A lovely lady who seldom missed a Curragh meeting and always seemed to have a smile on her face. Deepest sympathies to Robert, Caroline, Ines and family. RIP.”