Farmer and wildlife expert Johnny Kingdom has been killed in an accident involving a digger on his farmland.
Mr Kingdom, who specialised in his local area of Exmoor and north Devon, died on Thursday night (6 September).
Police were notified just before 9pm of a single vehicle collision in a field near Wadham Cross, Knowstone.
It was reported that a digger had rolled over in a field.
Emergency services attended the scene where the 79-year-old was pronounced deceased.
A magical friend has tragically died in an accident. Johnny Kingdom, we had so much fun together, you taught me so much about life. RIP. pic.twitter.com/L8sR2X9baf
— richard taylor-jones (@rtaylorjones) September 7, 2018
His family has issued a short statement: "Unfortunately a legend has been lost.
"Johnny would want you all to continue with his love for Exmoor as you all meant so much to him.
"As the loving man himself would have said 'Farewell to all you lovely people'."
Sad news today, Johnny Kingdom has passed away following an accident on his land, enthusiasm on tap, and a legend in his own way, and I’m sure inspired a lot of wildlife watchers, me included, thoughts with his family.
— Mark brown (@Marksperegrine) September 7, 2018
Officers in attendance carried out an examination of the scene and enquires are ongoing.
