On behalf of the Irish Long Distance Swimming Association we would like to send our condolences to her husband Hugh and her sons Stephen, Thomas and Patrick.

Maria was wonderful fun to be around and will be very sadly missed by the Irish Open Water Community.

Her bravery, tenacity and good humour stayed with her right to the end and she certainly left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew her.

R.I.P Maria.... Our loss is Heavens gain