Tribute to farmer

1:46pm Tuesday 26th August 2008

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A MOVING tribute has been paid to Bredon Hill farmer Michael Greaves, of Manor Farm, Conderton, who died in an accident while combining on Monday.

It was the second tragedy in the family. His brother Neil died in a farming accident some years ago.

Andrew John, former farm manager on the Overbury Estate, said: “The tragic death of Michael, a lifetime tenant farmer and much loved local character, has left the communities of Conderton and Overbury in deep shock.

“Michael was epitomised by his devotion to his farming, following the traditions laid down by his father over many years. Most of the time he worked on his own, only getting help during lambing and harvesting, putting in very long, exhausting hours. He grew up with the Young farmers movement and devoted considerable time to supporting them in his later years becoming a very popular senior member.

“In the community he was known as someone who would always stop for a chat no matter how busy he was, A fount of local information and gossip, he could always raise a smile with some of his tales. He endeared himself to the community by his consideration and willingness to help others and will be very sorely missed.”

Mr Greaves farmed around 300 acres with his mother Anne. About half the acreage is down to cereal production and sheep and beef cattle are reared on the grassland.

Neighbours have stepped in with offers of health to complete the cereal harvest on the farm.

Such has been the shock of his death in the village that a Harvest Supper fund raising event planned for Saturday, September 13, has been cancelled and the Harvest Festival at St Faith’s Church, Overbury, on Sunday, September 14, postponed until a date to be fixed in October.

The death has been reported to the Worcestershire coroner and an investigation into the circumstances launched by the Health and Safety Executive in conjunction with the police.

Mr Greaves is survived by his mother Anne and two married sisters, Susan and Barbara.