The service for Thelma Hopkins, who died in January , recounted her achievements in athletics, including winning gold for Northern Ireland in the 1954 Commonwealth Games.

The legendary sportswoman passed away aged 88 prompting a cascade of tributes praising her accomplishments.

Among them was fellow gold medallist Lady Mary, who called the Queen’s University graduate an “inspiration” to her.

Sunday’s memorial service took place at the Holy Trinity Church of Ireland in Ballylesson, Co Down, and was attended by more than 100 people.

A choir service was led by students from Ms Hopkins’ former school ,Victoria College, and was followed by a guard of honour from the hockey team for those exiting the church.

Ms Hopkins’s daughters, Joanne and Lynn, travelled to the service from Portugal a

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