Tribute paid to bull tragedy man

The partner of a north Shropshire man who died after being startled by bulls has paid tribute to "her best friend."

Bill Bathurst, from Astley, near Shawbury, died in a field near the Dog in the Lane pub in the village.

The 62-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, despite efforts by passers-by to resuscitate him. Mr Bathurst was discovered on Friday, at about 5pm.

Initially, it was thought he had been hit by a bull, but it is now believed he was frightened, rather than attacked, by the animal.

Betty Hudson, his partner of 20 years, said Mr Bathurst was a popular and well liked member of the community.

She said Mr Bathurst, who is originally from Ford, near Shrewsbury, had worked for Halls Auctioneers as chief secretary for 35 years, before being made redundant. He then became a full-time farmer.

Miss Hudson, 71, said: "He loved his farming; that's what he lived for, and he was really hardworking.

"He loved his job at Halls and he still used to go to the auction every week and he would stay there all day, sometimes taking his own stock to sell.

"He knew everybody, and he got to know all the farmers in all the areas around here.

"He never had time for any hobbies because he worked so much, but he was always a dog lover, and always had a dog, and he loved his current dog Bella, a collie."

Miss Hudson said she had met Mr Bathurst at a dance.

"We were not just partners, but best friends," she said.

Miss Hudson said the couple had been long term friends with neighbours Jube and Joyce Wickstead, and the four used to go on a caravan holiday to Scotland most years.

Mr Wickstead said: "At least we really enjoyed ourselves. He would be the smartest man at the auction, and we were big pals that went on holiday together every year."

Mr Bathurst is survived by his sister and brother in law, Ann and Terry Hancox, nephew Gareth Hancox and niece Bethan Hancox.

Inspector Sarah Wagstaff, from West Mercia Police, confirmed officers were investigating the cause of Mr Bathurst's death.

By Abigail Bates