Peggy Chinn, who died on June 27 aged 85 years, will be remembered for her radiant smile and cheerful disposition. She loved to have a chat and brightened the day for everyone she met.

A devout Christian, she worked tirelessly for Walford Church and was a longstanding member of the Parochial Church Council. With her strong character and great charisma, she brought the people of Walford together, whatever their creed, to help at various Church events but most notably the annual summer fete. She made everyone feel a valued member of the community.

A farmer's daughter, Margaret Mary Johnson was born at Clodock near Longtown on 16 June 1926, before the family moved to Knapp Farm, Bridge Sollers. Her parents ran a butchery business alongside the farm and the experience instilled in Peggy the ability to strike a bargain as well as a lifelong love of meat!

Peggy Chinn

Obituary

After leaving school Peggy worked on the family farm and became an active member of Herefordshire Young Farmers' Club, representing the county in national competitions for poultry trussing and egg judging classes. She went on to train several further generations in this now forgotten art.

Through the Young Farmers' Club Peggy met Bill Chinn and they were married in January 1949 starting a lifelong partnership in every sense of the word. Together they built up the family business, Cobrey Farms moving into their new family home, Cobrey Park in 1956.

She was a member of the Harewood End Agricultural Society Ladies Committee, winning numerous trophies for her culinary skills as well as helping to organise the Ladies' tent on show days and other social activities.

Peggy shared and encouraged Bill's love of horses and together they became very involved in the Ross Harriers. She also organised the Hunt Ball and in the late 1970s, taking the Ball upmarket - hiring, the Andrew Chance Band and Juliana's discotheque. With her usual flair for hospitality and to save money, Peggy insisted that the band stay at her house - a new experience for both the band and Peggy! The Ball was a huge success and the formula continued for many years.

In recent years, despite her own worsening arthritis, Peggy had devoted her life to caring for Bill at home as Parkinson's disease wore him down. It was just three days after his death last October that she fell and broke her hip. A few months ago stomach cancer was diagnosed but she was determined to retain her independence and enjoy the company of friends and family to the end.

Peggy is survived by her daughter Margaret, son John, seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Funeral service on Thursday 7th July at 12 noon at St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Walford. No flowers. Donations in lieu to Walford Church may be sent to c/o William Bevan, 16 Old Gloucester Road, Ross-on-Wye. HR9 5JG. 01989 562092