TRIBUTES have been paid to a former president and chairman of the Cheshire Show who died this week.

John Platt died on Thursday, February 28, at the age of 82 – just a week after stepping down as president of the ever-popular show staged at Tabley Showgrounds every June.

He had been suffering from a series of health problems and leaves behind his two sons, daughter and grandchildren, as well as his friends and community in his home village of Lach Dennis.

He was a former deputy lieutenant of Cheshire, received a doctorate from the University of Chester and was chairman and long-standing governor of Reaseheath College.

Due to the numbers attending his funeral – and following an offer from Bishop of Chester, Peter Forster – it will be held at Chester Catherdral on Tuesday, March 12 at 11am.

Tony Garnett, chairman of Cheshire Agricultural Society, said: “His hard work and perseverance took the Cheshire Show from the brink of extinction in the 1970’s to one of the country’s most prestigious county shows – for which he will always be remembered.

“It was due to John’s knowledge, experience and enthusiasm which contributed to the excellence of the show and the stability of the Cheshire Agricultural Society.

“It is with great sadness that we learned of his death but he will remain an inspiration for all those involved in the Cheshire show and Cheshire Agricultural Society.”

Pickmere resident Steve Wilkinson, a Cheshire East councillor, said: “I cannot think of anyone who has done more for and on behalf of the rural communities and agriculture in Cheshire than John.

“He has been an inspiration to everyone he has worked with during the many roles and positions he has held – from Cheshire Federation of Young Farmers, to long-serving governor and chairman at Reaseheath College.

“He also, of course, has many years of service to the Cheshire Agricultural Society and the Cheshire Show.

“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sympathy to his family and pay a personal tribute to the support and encouragement he gave to me and to his never-ending enthusiasm and interest in local government.”