THE celebrated founder of Cotswold Farm Park has died after a short illness.

A statement released by his grieving family said Joe Henson MBE died peacefully surrounded by family.

Mr Henson, who was 83, took over Bemborough Farm in 1962 with school friend John Neave.

“Joe’s desire to breed pedigree livestock and his pioneering interest in rare breed conservation led to the opening of Cotswold Farm Park in 1971,” his family said in a statement.

“Working with a number of like-minded conservationists, Joe was instrumental in the foundation of the Rare Breed’s Survival Trust (RBST) of which he became founder Chairman in 1973.

“The example set by Joe, and the work of the RBST, has ensured that no breeds of farm animal have become extinct since the Trust’s foundation.

“As a lifelong champion of farming and education, Joe received an MBE for his services to rare breed conservation in 2011. Joe Henson’s enduring legacy is the widespread recognition of the importance of genetic diversity and the resurgence of rare and traditional breeds.

“Joe was much loved by his family, friends and the farming community and will be sorely missed. We ask that the family’s privacy is respected during this sad time.”