REG Haydon, life president and former national chairman of the Tenant Farmers Association (TFA), has died just before his 84th birthday.

The TFA described him as a "true giant" who worked tirelessly for the tenanted sector of agriculture.

He was chairman for 13 years from 1995 to 2008 and held various regional and national roles for a total of 28 years. To mark his outstanding service the TFA made him their first and only Honorary Life President.

George Dunn, TFA chief executive, said: "Reg has been at the heart of the TFA almost since it began. It is no exaggeration to say that his passing marks the end of an era. He was always held in high regard and affection, both within the Association and beyond.

"He was a doughty campaigner, a strong advocate and a tough negotiator but always ensured that the rules of gentlemanly conduct applied in all of his dealings which won him many friends in industry, other organisations and in Government."

As chairman Mr Haydon led the TFA through some of the most turbulent times in farming including the collapse of the beef industry in 1996 following the BSE crisis; classical swine fever in 2000; chronic problems of bovine TB; massive volatility in cereal markets; two lots of Foot and Mouth Disease; and two major reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy.

Under his watch the TFA also grew in its levels of recognition, expertise and influence and his legacy is to have left a strong organisation in England and Wales, and helping to establish a similar voice in Scotland.

In recognition of his major contribution to the industry he was awarded the OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2006.

Mr Dunn said: "Reg’s passing will certainly leave a huge void and personally I have lost a great mentor and friend. Reg took a major risk in appointing me as the TFA’s chief executive nearly 20 years ago and I will always be grateful to him for that opportunity.

"The rollercoaster ride we had together had many heart stopping moments, but with Reg, it could never be boring. Our prayers are with his wife Jill and his children Ryan, Merrick and Samantha and their families."

A private family funeral will be held followed by a memorial service at St Leonard's Church, South Stoke, Arundel, on Monday, September 26, at 2pm. Mr Haydon's family has requested no flowers but donations to St Leonard's Church.

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