BARRIE Heath, who died when a tractor slipped into a slurry pit at Hanbury, had been a popular figure in Worcestershire's farming and hunting communities for more than half a century.

During the 1980s, he was a joint master of the Worcestershire Hunt for six seasons and, together with his wife Anne, was well known for helping generations of young riders through the Pony Club.

"Barrie Heath was one of those figures who was respected by everyone who met him," said Audrey Steel, Worcestershire chairman of the Countryside Alliance.

"If he could help anyone, he would, and he especially loved helping children.

"He had four grandchildren of his own and he doted on them.

"His death will leave such a gap in the countryside. Barrie Heath wasn't very tall, but he was a big man."

In fact, Mr Heath, right, hadn't been born into farming. The previous two generations of his family ran Heath Springs Ltd, a successful spring making company in Redditch.

But he loved the outdoor life and as a 21st birthday present his father bought him the 54-acre holding Park Hall Farm, in the Archers village of Hanbury in the early 1950s.

He subsequently enlarged the acreage and built up a milking herd. He also became a leading figure in the hunting and point-to-point world.

A few years ago, Barrie and his wife retired from full time farming and moved to the neighbouring Field Farm at Bradley Green.

Their son Chris took over at Park Hall, but his father returned regularly to help out.

Mr Heath, who was aged 73, leaves a widow, Anne, two daughters, Shirley and Nicola, a son Christopher and four grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.