The first time I ever saw Maria was in Irongate House and she was all dressed up, drink in hand, ready to go to the races. I was in the meeting room next to hers, all I could hear was that infectious laugh and thinking that she sounded at lot of fun! Thankfully I got to know Maria over the years of working at HD, usually at an event or party where she was warm, friendly and always smiling. She was a role model for any female; strong, formidable and dedicated to her family. My thoughts go out to her husband and sons Laura x