Farmer and skilled horseman, John Paterson Gray

Retired farmer John Paterson Gray, late of Auchrennie and latterly of Lochlair, has died.

He was born at Crawfordston Farm near Kippen in 1916, the third of eight children.

The main sources of income on farms in the Carse of Stirling at the time were breeding Clydesdale horses and selling hay.

A hard worker, John was often kept home from school, especially during hay time.

When he was 14, John’s father acquired the tenancy of West New Hall near Crail.

There he became a very skilled working horseman and often spoke of how much he enjoyed breaking in young horses.

In 1940 his younger brother was called up to the armed forces, and John felt he must also do his bit.

Against the wishes of his parents, he joined the Fleet Air Arm, where he served until 1946.

Shortly after the war, he acquired the tenancy of Auchrennie, where he built up a successful business.

He also entered into a partnership on a farm in Lincolnshire, which he personally managed for 30 years.

Although his main interest was agriculture, John enjoyed curling and loved meeting people from all walks of life.

John is predeceased by his wife Williamina (Bill) and survived by three sons, three grandsons and five great-grandsons.

His funeral takes place at Panbride Church, Carnoustie, at 12.30pm today.

John Paterson Gray.