FORMER National Farming Union (NFU) county chairman, Christopher Patrick (Paddy) Hodgson, has died at St Mary's Hospital in Newport on February 17, aged 86.

The London-born farmer, moved to the Island when aged 14.

After nurturing a love for farming at Wolverton Manor Farm, he attended Sparshott Agricultural College and served in the Royal Devonshire Regiment, before working abroad in Canada.

In 1962, Christopher settled in Sussex, managing a dairy farm and later purchasing an agricultural contracting business.

Fulfilling a childhood dream in 1978, he bought a farm and successfully ran both ventures.

He later moved to Cheverton Farm, Shorwell, to farm alongside his elder son.

Christopher was a key member of the NFU, serving as Island county chairman.

Throughout his tenure, he prioritised mental health support for the local farming community.

Beyond farming, he served as president of the Country Land and Business Association and as hunt chairman of the Isle of Wight Foxhounds.

A keen golfer and member of Freshwater Golf Club, Christopher was also with The Slipshod Singers male voice choir.

He is survived by his wife, two sons, a daughter and six grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at St Peters Church, Shorwell, at 2.30pm on March 21.