I’m stunned and extremely saddened to learn of Maria’s untimely passing. A truly amazing woman, with such a sharp practical mind, abundance of energy, tenacity, wit, that smile and, of course, a laugh you’d recognise anywhere and from a fair distance too! I feel very privileged to have had the good fortune to know Maria all my working life, and there is no doubt her passing will be felt by a great many, not least her family and closest friends, to whom I pass my sincerest condolences. You will be sorely missed. XX