TRIBUTES have been paid to Marion Stockley, one of the most recognisable faces in Farnham thanks to her work for the sports council, charities and the WI.

Marion was the secretary of Farnham Sports Council for more than 20 years, a long-standing helper and trustee of the Stella Hancock Carriage Driving for the Disabled organisation, and a founder member of The Bourne WI.

Marion was born in Surbiton on April 11, 1942, to parents Leslie and Edith Vines. Marion was an only child and had a very happy childhood.

A little note written by Marion in her notebook reads: Fly with the eagles, don’t peck with the hens – and perhaps that was the mindset that led her to achieve all that she did throughout her life.

Marion loved taking part in amateur dramatics with her mother and there was, of course, her first love – horse riding.

After leaving school, Marion undertook secretarial work where she was renowned for the speed and accuracy of her touch typing on huge typewriters with lever keys! She was a phenomenal administrator – as many organisations in the local area can attest.

Romance came into Marion’s life when a young man called Ian Stockley attended a party at Marion’s house. In between Ian’s time at sea, the relationship blossomed and Marion said ‘yes’ to Ian’s proposal six months after meeting and they were married in 1965.

Ian and Marion became the proud parents to Simon in 1971, Amanda in 1972 and Tamsin completed their family in 1979.

Horses were always part of Marion’s life and it was only natural she would give the children the opportunity to learn to ride too and so she taught all three.

Marion’s friend Linda Lawrence owned a horse and they would take it in turns to ride while the other looked after each other’s children.

A new direction developed around 20 years ago, when Marion was offered the chance to participate in carriage riding with her friend Judy. This interest developed and Marion was part of the team who travelled to Scotland in 2004, representing Great Britain in The Carriage Driving World Championships for Disabled Drivers.

The work of the charity Riding for the Disabled was very dear to Marion and she was heavily involved in the Stella Hancock Driving Group, based at Merrist Wood College.

There was an incredulous outpouring of grief at the news of her passing and so many lovely messages of condolence, assuring Marion’s family she will never be forgotten.

Marion’s contribution to the Bourne WI was also immense. She loved being part of the Tuesday morning rambling club and her rambling friends have said it won’t be the same with Marion and her dog Tashi.

Farnham was very important to Marion and she took great interest in the town and its history and was keen to be involved in the community in all sorts of ways.

Never one to stand still, Marion volunteered for more than 20 years with Farnham Sports Council. Her administrative skills were again in good use.

Fortnightly trips to the Farnham Maltings cinema with Shirley were greatly enjoyed and still mucking out the ponies every Sunday until she went into hospital, Marion remained busy for as long as possible.

One of her last trips out was to Crufts in March this year, which she absolutely loved. Her monthly visits to The Maltings market were favourite days out where Tashi was always much admired.

Marion – wife, mum, grandma and great friend. She didn’t waste a minute of her life – a wonderful role model for us all.

* See this week’s Herald for more tributes to a real star of the community