By GEMMA BROWN

Last updated at 10:02, Wednesday, 23 January 2013

VILLAGERS in Elsdon have paid tribute to a “vibrant and enthusiastic” member of their community who was killed in a quad biking accident.

Liz McIntosh was 64

Liz McIntosh (64) died last Friday when her vehicle overturned on a road at her 700 acre sheep and cattle farm, West Todholes, which she ran with the help of a part-time shepherd.

The quad bike had overturned, trapping her underneath. She was pronounced dead at the scene and an inquest was opened and adjourned by North Northumberland coroner, Tony Brown on Tuesday.

Chairman of Elsdon Parish Council, artist Keith Maddison, led tributes in the village.

“I first met Liz a few years ago when we were putting together the parish plan. She was waiting in the wings to do her bit again.

“She just quietly got involved in the background. This news has come as a shock to everyone.”

Brought up in Jesmond, she studied geography at Newcastle University and farmed at West Todholes for 32 years.

A chartered forester with expertise in landscape design and environmental interpretation, she would have celebrated her 65th birthday today.

Neighbour Barbara Foti, of Lonning House, said: “She had been a childhood friend of mine but we lost touch until my husband and I moved here around 10 years ago.”

Barbara and her husband Steve had been shopping on the afternoon of the accident and were told the news by police officers who knocked at their door.

“It came as such a shock and I think it’s only just starting to sink in now. She was such a vibrant, enthusiastic and positive person, who was great company. She’ll be a huge miss.”

Liz leaves two brothers, a sister and a number of nieces and nephews.

First published at 07:42, Wednesday, 23 January 2013
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk