DEAR EDITOR

I wish to add to all that’s been said about Tom Kelly in the past week.

It can’t have been an easy decision to sell up, but getting out at the top is really special and somewhat unique.

To reach the pinnacle of your chosen profession and to then get out at the top is not easy to do. Tom, having reached the summit of Mount Everest in breeding terms, then set up a permanent camp at the summit. Tom’s father, Seamus, was an early pioneer breeder of Holstein Friesians and achieved legendary status. Tom is also considered a legend.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

A huge crowd from every corner of Ireland turned out just to be there, to share the moment and to show support to Tom, Rhona and their son James.

A spontaneous standing ovation when the final lot was sold said it all. We should wish him well and lots of time to enjoy his love of poetry and his quiet support and comfort to so many of us.