TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular farmer who died suddenly last week.

Nigel Elliott, who worked at Cannon Hall Farm, died aged 69 after suffering heart failure through an undiagnosed condition.

His death shocked those who were closest to him, and tributes have been pouring in to the ‘kind and funny man’ online.

“He was a countryman at heart,” said Nigel’s wife of 32 years, Liz Elliott. “He wasn’t happy unless he was outdoors or with the animals at the farm.

“He was loved by everyone he met and he had a song for every occasion. If he met someone he would sing a song with their name in it which always brought a smile to people’s faces.”

Together Nigel and Liz had two children, Ruth and George.

“Nigel was a very caring and family-oriented man,” added Liz. “He was always there to listen and to give advice and made time for everyone.

“He was always the first one on the dance floor at a party and his smile was infectious. I shall miss him very much.”

Nigel worked at the farm, in Cawthorne, for 13 years and was a close friend to farmer and co-owner Roger Nicholson.

Roger’s son, Robert, said: “Nigel was a friend to everyone and a friend to the animals. He had a stockman’s eye who could spot a problem before others did.

“He cared very much about the animals he worked with and even the grumpiest old boar would sidle over to the door to get his ear scratched by Nigel. He had a real affinity for animals and they in turn liked and respected him.

“Dad and Nigel were really good friends and they were cut from the same old-fashioned farming cloth.

“We will all miss him very much and we send our deepest condolences to to his family.”