Alan Lawson

ALAN French Lawson, a respected farmer and breeder of cattle in West Yorkshire, has died at the age of 77.

Born in Guiseley, Leeds, in December 1932, he became involved in

farming from an early age when working on his parents' dairy farm – delivering milk to local homes.

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He developed an interest in cattle, working with black and white cows initially before developing an interest in pedigree breeding that would see him deal with people across the county and internationally.

He was a well-known figure at auction markets in West Yorkshire, as well as at the region's agricultural shows. He supported Otley Show throughout his life.

He also was involved in the exportation of cattle, selling cows to markets in France and Portugal during the 1960s.

A staunch defender of rural and farming life, he enjoyed a strong reputation for honesty and integrity among those who knew and dealt with him throughout the farming community.

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Outside of agriculture he was keen on showjumping, competing in events as a younger man, and continuing to follow the sport in later life. He was also a fan of boxing.

He and his wife Barbara, with whom he had recently celebrated 50 years of marriage, had two children and four grandchildren. His funeral will be held at St Oswald's Church, Guiseley, on Tuesday at 11.30am.