We were very sad to hear of the death of John Worsfold (1952 M), who passed away on 31st March 2023. A memorial service was held for him on 5th May 2023 at St Peter and St Paul's Church, East Sutton.

John was born on 24 July 1936 at Church Farm, which is now The Ridge Gold Club (rather fittingly the venue for the celebration of his life). He joined Sutton Valence School in 1952. According to his family, despite only living one mile away, he was asked to become a boarder in St Maragaret's, with the hope that it would encourage him to study more. He was well known for his high jinks at School, and in one notable incident, he and fellow Old Suttonian Michael Vant (deceased) threw a shot put off the top of St Margaret's tower, which went straight through a garage roof and onto one of the master's cars. However, they offered to clear up the mess and were awarded tea and cakes for their helpfulness!

Following a stint in the army for National Service, John returned to manage Barling, the family farm. He met Janet, his wife, at Young Farmers and after a short engagement, they married and had three children, Jackie, Jill and Jonathan. As well as farming he diversified into the marquee hire businees, as well as Janet establishing Janet's China Hire.

John loved deer stalking in Scotland and excelled at fly fishing. He was a founding member and past president of the Weald of Kent Rotary Club, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow in appreciation of his efforts in connection with that. He was also a member of the East Sutton Parish Council for many years. One of his specialities was throwing parties and serving jugs of gins and tonic was not uncommon! He was a great character, unfailing helpful to all his family, friends and neighbours and adoring of his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and our sympathies go to all his family and friends.