Tributes to former NFU leader and councillor

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to the Churston Ferrers area at around midday on Sunday, June 25, following reports of concerns for the welfare of a man in the area. Ambulance crews were also sent to the scene.
The National Farmers' Union confirmed a man found dead was Mr Haddock.
The NFU issued a statement sending its condolences to Mr Haddock's family. It said: “We are extremely sorry to hear about the death of former Devon NFU chair Richard Haddock."
NFU president Minette Batters said: “Richard was well known to many of us in the South West and throughout the industry for his campaigning work on behalf of farmers and growers. He served in a number of high-profile NFU positions including county chair in 1999, and South West regional board chair in 2006/7. He was also chair of the regional livestock board and NFU national livestock board chair in the early 2000s.
“On behalf of the NFU and its members, I offer our condolences to Richard’s wife Caroline and all his family and friends at this very sad time.”
Mr Haddock, 66, was chair of Brixham Town Council until May of this year and served on Torbay Council as a Conservative and senior councillor until 2019. He farmed in the Brixham area and established Churston Farm Shop.
Brixham Town Council said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of our former councillor, Richard Haddock.
"Richard was a town councillor from 2019 to 2023 and ended his term of office as the council chairperson. He was a great champion for Brixham and the Town Council and was passionate in everything he did. Richard will be sorely missed by everyone at Brixham Town Council, and our deepest sympathies go to his wife and family at this difficult time."
Torbay Council said in a statement: "Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the family and friends of ex Torbay Council councillor and recent Chair of Brixham Town Council, Richard Haddock.
"Richard represented residents of the Churston and Galmpton ward in Paignton from 2015 to 2019. He was also Executive Lead Member for Business, Customer Services and Town Centre Regeneration during that time."
The council said as a mark of respect flags will be flown at half-mast at the Town Hall in Torquay until sunset on the day of Mr Haddock's funeral.
A police spokesperson added: "This death is not being treated as suspicious and file is being prepared for the coroner."