Much loved Devon farmer found dead in barn

An inquest has been opened into the death of a much admired and regarded Devon farmer.

The brief public hearing into the death of 58-year-old Michael Tewson was held on September 3 by area coroner Alison Longhorn at Devon Coroner's court, now located in Exeter's county hall.

She stated that Michael was born in Torbay and resided at a farm in Bickington, Newton Abbot and died at that address on August 26.

Ms Longhorn said that at the time of his untimely passing Michael was divorced and was a farmer by occupation.

She explained the circumstances of his death was that he had been struggling recently with his mental health and on August 26 he remained at home while his family went out. On their return they could not find him and so began to search the farm. They went on to find him in distressing circumstances in a nearby barn.

The court heard there were no suspicious circumstances and the medical cause of death had been ascertained as suspension by ligature. She adjourned the hearing and a full inquest will take place at a later date.

It a public statement on its Facebook page, staff at the South Devon Dairy paid tribute to Michael, who they noted was a beloved father and cherished grandfather. They added that Michael was an "inspiration" to his son and "a huge supporter of everything we've accomplished at South Devon Dairy. Without his unwavering encouragement, we would not be where we are today."

They went on to encourage everyone whose lives Michael touched to join them in remembering and honouring him at the funeral service which will take place on Friday, September 27, at 10.30am at St Andrew's Church, Ipplepen.

Numerous friends and colleagues added their own tributes on the Facebook page, with one writing: "A true gentleman who was loved by so many. No ask was too big and always put others first. He captured the hearts of so many and raised the best children. A man we will forever be grateful of for all the opportunities he gave us and someone that will forever be in our hearts"

Another wrote: "Many sheep farmers, myself included, have Mike to thank for getting them started! Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today! A true, kind, gentleman! Someone who was truly passionate about farming and helping young farmers into the industry!

Devon and Cornwall Police's rural team this week have highlighted the mental health stresses many farmers endure, nothing that "the stresses and pressures on British Farming are at an all time high".

They have presented a useful downloadable document from their friends at the Farm Safety Foundation - Yellow Wellies which is available here: https://www.yellowwellies.org/the-little-book-of-minding.../

In addition the rural policing team urged that any farmers or farm workers who need help there were a number of support services out there to address mental health, financial and general support, such as https://www.yellowwellies.org/, https://fcn.org.uk/ and https://rabi.org.uk/ amongst others.

The rural team said: "There is someone out there who can help! Don't struggle alone! See our latest Facebook post about Mental Health here- www.facebook.com/dcpolicerural "

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