A MAN who was a farmer for all of his life, and was also a long-serving Spreyton Parish Councillor, celebrated his 100th birthday with many visitors on Monday, June 17.

Wilf Brimacombe hosted many friends and family at the Langford Park Care Home near Newton St Cyres, where he has been a resident for just a few weeks.

Mr Brimacombe was not only a much-admired farmer, but he was also a very competent gardener, beekeeper and cook.

He farmed with his brother Dick at South Beer Farm, Spreyton, which they purchased in 1956, having moved from another farm in the parish.

Wilf recalled how, when he was just 14, his father taught him how to plough with a horse and single furrow plough.

He said it was hard work and was pleased when he and his brother bought their first farm tractor for £110, a new Fordson, which made the ploughing much easier.

During the war-time years, Dick and Wilf caught rabbits to provide much-needed meat for local families, which provided them with a good income.

Wilf was married to Alice, but the couple had no children. However, Wilf has many nephews and nieces and many were callers to see him on his birthday.

He had dozens of cards and was thrilled to receive a birthday card from the Queen.

Relatives said that he was such an accomplished gardener, explaining “he grew it all and cooked it all”.

They said he enjoyed keeping up with current affairs and was a fount of information regarding the seasons and farming practices.