A passionate advocate of Devon Young Farmers Clubs sadly passed away on September 19.

John Greenslade MBE was county chairman in 1966, before becoming an honorary life vice president.

When Devon Young Farmers Clubs were celebrating their 80th anniversary, he wrote: "I owe much of my life experience to the YFC.

"Put as much in as you can and you’ll get as much out. You won’t be disappointed.

"The opportunities now are even greater than when I joined.

"Farming isn’t going to have an easy future, and we need young farmers with the right qualities who are able to speak up for the industry."

He was known by many as 'Farmer John' thanks to his regular countryside slot on BBC Radio Devon.

He had been a very active member of Withleigh YFC and still supported the club and Exe Valley Group at every available opportunity, including attending group entertains rounds, speaking competitions and safari suppers.

John himself had gained much from his time as a member, including winning seven gold badges for crafts like hedging and gate making as well as participating in sports and speaking competitions.

As a result of this, he once explained that, "had I never joined the YFC, I wouldn’t have achieved half what I have in life".

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John was a dairy and sheep farmer in the Exe Valley and was not only a Justice of the Peace for 20 years but also wrote a book entitled ‘T’was a Proper Job’.

He was a Trustee of the Tiverton Agricultural Society and was a very influential member in starting the Mid Devon Show.

As a result of his incredible support for all aspects of the countryside, John was awarded an MBE in 2016 for services to agricultural education and training.

John met his wife Janette at a Young Farmers dance and they were happily married for more than 50 years.

Helen Pring, county organiser of Devon YFC, said: "John epitomised the young farmers movement and what being a young farmer is always about – having fun, learning new skills, seeking opportunities and supporting others in the countryside.

"He will be very sadly missed by those who were lucky enough to know him, and to be influenced by him, but his legacy to our movement and the Exe Valley will live on.

"May we all strive to live by his thoughts and views, as we ourselves, continue to adjust to life living through the current pandemic."