A RESPECTED farmer has been remembered for the legacy he has left not only in farming, but as a family man and pillar of his community.

Peter Martin, in partnership with the Longford Estate, managed Nunton Farm for most of his adult life. During this time he increased the herd more than tenfold, ran multiple dairy units, and oversaw the implementation of cutting edge dairy equipment and techniques.

His family said: “Peter had a real passion not just for farming, but for the countryside in general. He had a real interest in wildlife and plants and in particular loved the water meadows on the farm. He became quite an authority on the traditional management of working water meadows in this region.”

Peter, 83, died on September 24. He was a “devoted husband” to Jean and father to Edward, Simon and Claire, a grandfather of eight and a great-grandfather of two.

His family said: “He was a very down to earth, genuine man who loved and enjoyed family life and took the time to invest in his children, in their hobbies and livelihoods. His family have said that his steadfast support and wisdom in all areas of life will be sorely missed.

“When he wasn’t dedicating his time to his cows or his family, Peter invested in his local community. He was one of ‘The Three Peters’ who helped to run the village fete, he was the church warden – a role that he loved, and was also a respected magistrate. Peter was the sort of man who really got stuck into community life and grasped with both hands any opportunity that came his way.

“And if there was any time left at all after the cows, the family and the community had had their fill, Peter’s spare time was spent as an adventurous fisherman and a keen gardener.

“He has inspired the generations that follow in his path to be bold and pioneering in their business approach, to be devoted to family, and to invest in the community, which is no doubt why the farm is thriving in its local community today.”