Joe Henson set up the Cotswold Farm Park in 1971 and, later, the Rare Breeds Survival Trust
The founder of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and "lifelong champion" of farming, Joe Henson MBE, has died.
Mr Henson, 82, passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by close family, according to a statement from the Cotswold Farm Park, external.
He set up the farm in 1971 to breed pedigree livestock and build interest in rare breed conservation, and the trust was founded two years later.
His family said he was much loved and "will be sorely missed".
'Rare breed resurgence'
The farm park said in a statement: "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.
"Joe Henson's enduring legacy is the widespread recognition of the importance of genetic diversity and the resurgence of rare and traditional breeds."
Joe's son, Adam (right), now runs the Cotswold Farm Park and is a popular television presenter
In 2011 Mr Henson was made an MBE for his four decades of work to save rare farm breeds.
He attended a Windsor Castle ceremony with his wife Gill, daughter Louise and son Adam - a farmer and television presenter.
RBST president Richard Matson described Mr Henson as the originator of, and "driving force" behind, the Kenilworth-based trust.
"So often when one talks of someone who has died, you say it is the end of an era, but he has left an extraordinary legacy," he said.
"Not only with his Cotswold Farm Park, but also his son and daughter are absolutely key people in rare breeds in this country."
- Published19 August 2014
- Published4 October 2011
