One of Ken’s contemporaries has (with tongue in cheek) blamed him for getting him into local politics. Cllr John Edney spoke warmly of the Cannington farmer.

“He was largely instrumental in me becoming a county councillor in 2001,” said Cllr Edney, “but previously to that we worked together in the Conservative Association. He suggested I stood for election and supported me and was a great friend and mentor to me. He was one of nature’s gentlemen, totally self-made, pulled himself up from his own boot straps – a very hard worker.”

“He called a spade a spade, never bothered with computers and ipads and the like, but was very good with his constituency work. If he was asked to do something he’d do it. He was that sort of person. Very well known, and very well liked. I’ve never heard a word against him.”

Political opponents have also paid tribute. This is from the leader of the Labour group on the district council Mick Lerry: “It is important to pay tribute to the role that Cllr Ken Dyer played, in terms of his service to his community and constituency. At the Council meeting held on the 27th January all Councillors present observed a minute’s silence. Despite our political differences Ken was someone who had the best interests of the community at heart. I would wish on behalf of the Labour Party to pass on our condolences to his family and friends.”

Cannington Parish Council have also paid tribute. Speaking to the Mercury the chairman Cllr Colin Allen said: “It is with great sadness that the Cannington Parish Council heard of the news of Ken Dyer. He has been a great servant to the village over many years, and will be sadly missed by all. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Neil Parish MP who was a close friend and farming colleague said: “Ken was a great character, a good friend, a hardworking councillor and an astute farmer and will be greatly missed. My condolences go to his family and friends at this sad time.”

Another friend and political ally is the Conservative MP Ian Liddell Grainger. He said he was deeply saddened by the news saying Cannington, Sedgemoor and the county had lost one of its best men. Mr Liddell Grainger said: “Ken was one of a kind and his hard work, sharp business mind and knowledge of farming will be greatly missed.”

If you would like to add to the tributes to Ken Dyer, email in your letters to harry.mottram@nqsw.co.uk We’d also like to hear your stories and receive your photographs of the work of one of Cannington’s favourite sons so we can share them with our readers.