THE death has been announced of Robert Folkard, local farmer and last year's joint president of the Orsett Show. He passed away on Friday, 19 January.

Mr Folkard was born in East Tilbury Village, where he decided to start his farm-working journey. Rob began to work on the Osborne Farm in the 1950s and later worked for Lou Osborne. He then started working for Ray Osbourne, who was a stalwart of the Orsett show for many years.

Since the 1950s, Rob has been heavily involved in the Orsett Show, initially focusing on the agriculture side, and then as Ground Controller, a role which entailed many hours ordering fencing, marquees and getting the site ready for Show Day and which he passed on to his son Clive.

Together with his wife Cynthia, who was also born in East Tilbury, Mr and Mrs Folkard were last year''s show presidents in recognition of the many number of years of dedication and support both have given to the Show.

Show secretay Georgina Clark said: "Our thoughts are with Cynthia, Clive and family at this very difficult time."