Finkley Down Farm has paid tribute to a much-loved member of their team after he passed away on Thursday, October 15.

Members of the public paid tribute on social media, recalling fond memories of speaking with Sam.

In a statement, the farm said: “We are very sad to announce that one our friends and colleagues Farmer Sam passed away aged 88, in the early hours of Thursday morning after a short illness.

“Sam was a treasured member of the Finkley family and worked with us since 2013. He is sadly missed by us all at the farm but will never be forgotten. He always had a smile on his face and a joke to tell. We absolutely loved his stories from the old days and he would often try to teach us Spanish!

“Sam was quite the handy man and built many of the animal houses here, including Reptile Encounters, Cluckingham Palace, Big Ben Barn as well as Meerkat Mansion and much more.

“Rest in peace Farmer Sam.”