Caroline Drummond, the chief executive of Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF), has passed away.

The sad news was shared by Philip Wynn, LEAF chairman.

He said: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of LEAF’s chief executive, Caroline Drummond, who passed away yesterday afternoon, Monday, May 23, after a short illness.

"Caroline was an inspiration, and it is her passion, determination, foresight and energy that has transformed LEAF from its small beginnings 30 years ago to the globally recognised and respected organisation it is today.

"There really are no words to express how much Caroline will be missed within LEAF and the farming industry; but most deeply by her family, to whom we extend our greatest sympathy."