PEOPLE lined the streets in Barnard Castle to pay their respects to a well-respected member of the farming community whose last wish was to be taken to his final resting place in a horse-drawn carriage.
Ken Wilson died at home in Barnard Castle on May 20 aged 83. Mr Wilson, who was described a “kind and gentle man”, had farmed at High House, Marwood, for many years and had a deep passion for horses.
A pair of beautiful horses took the carriage from his home on Raby Avenue on Wednesday afternoon, along Galgate and John Street and to the cemetery. Bystanders described it as a moving and fitting occasion.
His wife, Dorothy, said: “He loved horses. He used to ride with the Zetland Hunt and went to the races at Sedgefield and Catterick – that’s why he wanted to be taken by horse and carriage.
“He was a farmer through and through until he retired and came to Barney. He loved living here.”
Revd Canon Alec Harding, who took a small family service in the garden of Mr Wilson’s home before the procession, said: “Ken was well known in the local farming community. He worshipped regularly at St Mary’s, was a member of the bowls club (‘Canon Ball Ken’) and was much loved as a gentle, kind man.”
Iris Hillery, who watched the parade, said: “It was very moving. A lovely tribute for such a kind and generous man.”
Louisa Dean added: “Ken Wilson was one of the nicest men I knew. He was always living his best life. He will be sadly missed.”
Mr Wilson leaves his wife, Dorothy, and children Geoff, Tony and Chris. He had previously been married to the late Coral.
