TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular North-East farmer who died at his home on Saturday following a two-year battle with cancer.

John Dent, of Pecknell Farm, Lartington, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, is remembered as a man with a great sense of humour and a deep love for his family.

He leaves his wife, Ann, and daughters, Helen, 25, and Laura, 20.

Mr Dent was born in 1947 on the farm and successfully reared poultry and calves for nearly 40 years.

He often exhibited his livestock, including sheep, and was well known for his Suffolk tups, which once won the championship at Eggleston Show. At one time, he held the record price for a tup at Barnard Castle Auction Mart.

A caravan site Mr Dent designed at the farm became very successful, with 19 static caravans and a site for touring caravans.

Mr Dent collected art and amassed a large collection of paintings.

Many of his favourite pieces of art were moved to his bedroom when he became ill so he could be surrounded by the things he loved.

Mrs Dent said: "Even when he was ill, he took a great interest in how the farm was doing and wanted to be told everything that was going on. He will be very sadly missed by his family and friends."

Helen said: "He had a very dry sense of humour and was always joking.

"He never had a word of complaint about his illness and never once said it was unfair. He was very determined and didn't give up easily."

Mr Dent's funeral takes place at St Romald's Church, Romaldkirk, at noon tomorrow, to be followed by interment at Romaldkirk Cemetery. Family flowers only, donations in lieu to St Romald's church and cancer charities.