Farming, family and sport were the three things that came first for lifelong Dalesman John Heseltine who has died aged 90, writes his daughter, Sue Heseltine.

John was born and brought up on a remote farm at Thoralby, in Wensleydale, with his parents, Arthur and Clara, brother Albert and sister, Margaret (later Iveson). But John spent most of his life farming at Hill Top Farm in Malham, now run by his son, Neil and partner, Leigh.

As a young man he’d moved with his parents to the village where he met and married the girl at the farm next door, Annie Hudson.

Married for 65 years they continued to live in Malham until his death at Airedale Hospital on Monday this week, February 13. The couple were blessed with five children and nine grandchildren and their first great grandchild is due to be born next month.

John was a huge sports fan, playing football for Bradley and Gargrave FC, captaining Littondale in the Dales Cricket league and competing for the Lister Arms in the local darts league.

His one regret was not playing rugby and he became an ardent supporter of Wharfedale Rugby Club where he served for many years as a committee member and was a familiar figure parking cars in his high-vis jacket and trousers. In 2011 he received an award from the RFU for his services to rugby union.

He watched Wharfedale games home and away and was delighted that his son, Neil, and daughter, Sally (now Canny), both played for the club. Grandson Oscar Canny is also currently playing for the first team.

For many years John and Annie followed the Sheepdog Trials and fell-racing events around the country. They have both been active supporters of Malham Show, serving as presidents in 1993, and John was also a member of Malham Parish Council.

Both were also well known as enthusiastic patrons of the local pubs even in recent years when John suffered from Parkinson’s Disease.

Although farmers all their working lives John and Annie were among the pioneers of diversification when they opened Hill Top Farm Bunk Barn and holiday cottage.

John died peacefully at Airedale Hospital this week surrounded by his family. He leaves a widow, Annie, five children and nine grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are still to be confirmed but there will be a family cremation followed by a service at St Michael’s Church, Kirkby Malham. Full details will be announced in the Craven Herald.