Tom grew up at Low Hall with his parents Tommy and Joan and his three sisters - I am the youngest and in his early farming days was often a thorn in his side. I remember being tied in a sack having got in the way once too often - no half measures. When you are 17 and working, 7 year-olds can be very irritating.
 
From an early age Tom had shown an interest in farming so after agricultural college in Galway in Ireland it was  straight into full-time farming at Low Hall. He saw big changes in farming methods, starting with a little tractor and a big gentle shire horse called Dick, through to the large modern farm machinery of today.
 
He was a strong character who saw many changes and suffered several personal tragedies but came out the other side smiling and positive. As everyone has mentioned, he gave wonderful parties and was an excellent raconteur and a perfect host or guest.
 
His lovely daughters Anna and Sarah and five bright and healthy grandchildren are our reminder of the knowledgeable and capable man he was.
 
We shall all miss him.