Seat at House of Lords fitting tribute to former South Down MP Ritchie

SIR, — I would like to pay my belated respects to former South Down MP Margaret Ritchie on becoming a member of the House of Lords. 

It is a great and fitting tribute to a local woman who has devoted herself entirely to serving local people at council, Assembly and Westminster levels.

I know from previous newspaper reports that the new Baroness has not had an easy time in the past few years with her health, having had breast cancer and come through the treatment. 

With the departure of the much loved and respected Baroness May Blood, Ms Ritchie’s appointment will give Northern Ireland, as a whole, a grounded and authentic voice in the Upper House.

I wish her well in the years to come and hopes she enjoys the experience.

Yours etc,

Politico,

Saintfield.