Mr Ayre, an authority on the area's agricultural heritage and an avid collector of implements, artefacts and items of nostalgic interest and a massive supporter of many events and activities, will be sorely missed.

A funeral service will be held at St Thomas' Church, Market Rasen, at noon on Thursday.

Donations are requested to the St Thomas' Tower Appeal.

He has been hailed as 'a man of amazing foresight' by Rase Heritage Society Chairman Hazel Barnard for his vision in collecting up items of local historical and agricultural interest.

His passing leaves a gapping hole of knowledge and awareness.

"He was a lovely man, a quiet and determined worker; a real countryman and he will be missed in so many ways," said Mrs Barnard.

He was also a stalwart with the Market Rasen Christmas Tree Committee, annually documenting the delight of children on Christmas Eve as they received gifts from Santa.

Mr Ayre was also a popular and skillful judge at flower and vegetable shows.

He leaves his wife Audrey, daughters Susan and Angela and grandchildren Grant and Hadyn.

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