Tribute paid to Shropshire farmer Norman Ford
The family of a Shropshire farmer who died following a collision near his home, today spoke of their loss and paid tribute to his involvement in the local community.
Norman Ford, aged 67, of The Dingle, Aldersey Lane, Prees, was airlifted to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, Stoke last Thursday.
The pick-up and trailer he was using to transport cattle left the road and crashed at Coton. No other vehicle was involved. Sadly, Mr Ford died soon after arriving at hospital.
In a statement issued today, his family said: “Norman was the beloved husband of Barbara, cherished father of Paul and Anthony, and now much missed Grandpa of Rory and Felix Ford.
“He was an active member of the north Shropshire farming community, a former president of Shropshire County Crown Green Bowling Association and for over 50 years the leader of Prees Church bell ringers. He was a larger than life figure, never shy to voice his opinions, but with many tall tales and jokes on hand to endear him to all”.
Mr Ford was born in 1946 in Sandbach, Cheshire, the middle son of George and May Ford. Along with his brothers Robert and Peter, he initially grew up around the Crewe area before the family moved to Prees on Bonfire Night 1959 to pursue their love of farming.
His family said: “It was probably inevitable that he married a local farmer’s girl in Barbara, having both been president and secretary of Whixall Young Farmers respectively”.
He graduated from Walford Agricultural College in 1964 but regularly returned over many years as a Proficiency Test Examiner and was followed by his son Anthony. For the past 25 years they have worked in partnership milking a herd of over 250 cattle at Sandy Lane Farm, Prees.
“He never stopped reminding all who met him that he was up before 4am each day on the farm, as was the case on the day he died,” his family said.
Outside farming, Mr Ford enjoyed many sports, but it was crown green bowls that was his passion and he took an active role in the development of Prees Cricket and Recreation Club.
For many years he captained the Prees “A” team, was president of the Whitchurch & District League (1993-2007), represented the Market Drayton League, played and refereed for Shropshire in national competitions, and in 1988 presided as Shropshire Crown Green Bowling Association President.
The family statement added: “For over 50 years he climbed the bell tower of StChad’s Church, Prees, leading the peal of bells. Many in the village have been awoken accordingly but last Sunday his bell fell quiet.
“We are still in shock and disbelief and are dealing with a massive void in our lives. We take solace from the fact that Norman was farming until the end and take comfort from the compassion and support received from relatives, neighbours and friends."
A memorial service will be held at midday on Friday, 2 August at St Chad’s Church.
