"The family thank you for all your kind messages during this time."

Derek Mead owned Border Collies and terriers and was often seen pottering around the farm in his wellies and flat cap, a neighbour said.

Local councillor Mr Mead was the chairman of the Mead Group, which runs the biggest auction centre in southern England, and Puxton Park, a family attraction.

He made his fortune in dairy farming, breeding pigs, sheep and three dairy herds across 2,000 acres of land in Somerset with his son Alistair.

He was also involved in the construction sector and local politics and in 2013 was elected as an independent to North Somerset Council. Tributes have been paid to "a true gentleman" and "a great bloke".

Conservative councillor Martin Williams said: "We may have been on opposite sides of the council chamber but we always had a good laugh afterwards.

"Every time you saw me you would shake my hand and tell me, 'I'll have you lot one day!'

"Legend, I'll miss you loads mate. Sleep well.".

North Somerset Council said: "The tragic death of Councillor Derek Mead has come as a terrible shock to us all.

"Councillor Mead had a range of business interests and was passionate about the area where he lived and worked.