Tributes have been paid to leading Ledbury landowner, the Honourable Edward Biddulph, who died peacefully at home in Much Marcle, last Thursday.

His funeral will take place in St Michael and All Angels' Church, on Friday, November 9, at 2pm.

Mr Biddulph, aged 67, was the last of an aristocratic family to still live in Ledbury.

Michael Biddulph, the son of Robert Biddulph, a 19th Century Herefordshire MP, became the first Baron Biddulph of Ledbury in 1903. Edward Biddulph was uncle to the fifth Baron, Anthony Biddulph, who lives in London and Kelso, Scotland.

Mr Biddulph was a beneficiary of The Biddulph Children's Trust and, as major local landowner, allowed Ledbury Park to be used for a number of community events.

He lived a quiet life at his home, Ribston Lawn, but kept an interested eye on community events.

Educated at Eton, he joined the army and saw action as an officer in Cyprus. His friend, Sir Thomas Dunne, Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, said he was known not only for his sense of humour and eccentricity but also his bravery.

In the 1950s, Mr Biddulph was commended by a judge after chasing and catching a burglar in London.

While in the army, he was once given the last rites on Salisbury Plain after being involved in a car accident. Sir Thomas said: "He very much spoke his mind but he was a life-enhancer and a most enjoyable companion."

Mr Biddulph's chief interest in life was horse racing and he had a share in a racehorse.