The Island’s First Deemster has paid tribute to a well-respected court reporter who passed away earlier this week.
Esther Richmond covered court cases on the Isle of Man for more than 40 years.
She died on Tuesday evening after a recent illness.
Deemster Doyle says he’s saddened by the news, and released a statement to the media.
In his statement, Deemster Doyle says he’d known Esther for some time and visited her in hospital recently.
During the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy High Bailiff in July 2011 he made a point of thanking Esther for her coverage of criminal cases.
Deemster Doyle says court reporting is essential to maintaining and enhancing open justice.
He describes her as a kind, thoughtful and sensitive woman who had the best interests of the Island in her heart and in her soul.