The family of Derek Mead have said he died ‘doing what he loved’ after a fatal accident on his farm yesterday afternoon (Sunday).

Tributes have been pouring in from the worlds of business, farming and politics for Mr Mead after the fatal accident near Puxton.

It is believed he died following an incident involving a tractor and despite the efforts of paramedics and the air ambulance team he could not be saved.

The accident happened at about 2.15pm yesterday afternoon at his farm.

In a statement, the Mead family said: “It is with heavy hearts that we have to let you know that our father and grandfather, Derek Mead was killed in a tragic accident on his farm in North Somerset on the afternoon of June 4.

“He was doing what he loved and had been doing since he was a young boy.

“The family thank you all for your kind messages during this hard time and would greatly appreciate it if you could allow us the time to come to terms with this terrible loss.”

His sudden passing has left many shocked.

Mr Mead had served on Weston Town Council for four years and it paid tribute to him in a statement this morning (Monday).

It said: “Weston-super-Mare Town Council is shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Councillor Derek Mead in a farming accident yesterday.

“Cllr Mead had been an independent member of the town council since 2013.

“He was admired for his sense of humour, and for always speaking his mind.

“He is a great loss to the town council and will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”

He also represented North Worle for North Somerset Council as an independent.

Cllr Mike Bell, who leads the Liberal Democrats group within the council, said Mr Mead had a ‘heart of gold’.

He added: “Shocked to learn that Derek Mead has passed away. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

“I was pleased to work with Derek closely as he battled to save the Tropicana.

“He was a straight-talker who really cared about his community and will be greatly missed.”

The Weston-super-Mare Chamber of Commerce also tweeted their ‘great sadness’ at learning of Mr Mead’s death.