AROUND 300 people came to say goodbye to much-loved Tibberton farmer Roly Morris.

Tibberton Church was packed with mourners with around half of those who attended listening outside to the funeral service on a loudspeaker.

Mr Morris’s body was taken to the church on the back of a vintage tractor on Tuesday evening at his request.

The 94-year-old farmer, who died in December, lived most of his life in the village and was described as a happy man who had touched many lives and made a positive contribution.

Friend Brian Chilvers told stories of Mr Morris’s farming life at Lower Smite Farm and then at Eaton’s Farm, which he ran until his retirement.

The family suffered from the hand, foot and mouth epidemic in 1967 but Mr Morris persevered and was a loyal and generous friend.

Mr Morris’s son Andy also spoke describing his father’s many roles, including as husband, father and grandfather, as well as his love of tractors and farm machinery, his work with the National Farmers Union and as founder of the Crowle Agricultural Discussion group.

Mr Morris, on behalf of the wider family, said: “We are very proud of his many achievements during a long and happy life.”

Reverend David Morris described Mr Morris’s enduring love for the countryside and his strong faith. He said: “He had a joie de vivre based on love for his family, for this community, this place and for God.”

As the coffin was carried out of the churchyard, churchwardens from the Bowbrook group of churches held their wands in a tribute to the man who was a churchwarden for 46 years. The service continued later at Worcester Crematorium.