Tributes paid after death of farmer (88) in Co Down

AN elderly farmer who passed away suddenly on his property in Co Down has been named locally as 88-year-old James Nelson.

He was found by neighbours on his Crawfordstown Road farm outside Drumaness at around 11am on Sunday.

There are currently no details regarding the cause of the death with police confirming that investigations are ongoing, and a post-mortem will be carried out.

In a statement the PSNI said: “Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an older male in Ballynahinch on Sunday, September 8. Enquiries are ongoing and a post-mortem is due to be carried out in due course”.

Ulster Unionist councillor Alan Lewis paid tribute to Mr Nelson as being someone who “was liked, admired and respected by all who knew him”.

He added: “Neighbours speak fondly of his warmth and caring nature, he was devoted to his farm and the care of his animals.

“His death was a huge shock to the local area, people are stunned, saddened and at a loss to understand what has happened.”

The councillor went on to commend “those close friends and neighbours who aided him on the farm”.

“They are a fine example of cohesive community spirit. I’m confident that these same people will rally round to ensure his animals are cared for and farm maintained in coming days,” he said.

“Mr Nelsons death is a loss to not only those who knew him but the area at large. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time”.

The Health and Safety Executive, which has responsibility for investigating deaths on farms said it “is making enquiries”.

Mr Nelson’s funeral will take place on Saturday at 11am at Douglas Funeral Church Ballynahinch, afterwards to Lough Inch Cemetery.

A death notice said he was the beloved brother of Jean, Trevor and the late David and will be “sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his sorrowing brother, sister, family circle and friends”.