The family of a respected Norfolk cattle farmer have proudly accepted a top Aylsham Show trophy in his memory - on the day before his funeral.
Paul Gunther, a livestock breeder and former contractor whose family business is based at Felthorpe, died on August 7 at the age of 81.
But his legacy was remembered during an emotional presentation at the show at Blickling Park on Bank Holiday Monday.
One of Mr Gunther's cherished pedigree Simmental cows, named Fircovert Peggy, was crowned the female Simmental champion and overall Simmental champion.
His wife Linda was at the show to collect the trophies, alongside his daughter Lizzie Robertson and granddaughter Lauren Robertson.
Lizzie Robertson said: "He would be so proud. The cattle was the love of his life. He loved his family, but his cattle were his family too.
"I am so proud he won today. This was his favourite show, and he always thought that people should support their local show."
Mrs Gunther added: "It is unreal that we are here, but he is not. I just wish he knew [that he had won the competition]. He loved his cattle."
Mr Gunther ran a major farm contracting operation during his career, and also worked on the landscaping of many Norfolk golf courses.
But his main passion was his cattle, winning major titles at national competitions and county shows across the country with his 700-strong pedigree Simmental herd, which was scaled down after his retirement in 2017.
The Aylsham Show also honoured Mr Gunther with a minute's silence in the livestock rings, and a tribute during the grand parade in the Main Ring, where he was described as a "great supporter of this show, and this parade of Simmental cattle is a credit to him".
A funeral service for Mr Gunther will be held St Faith’s Crematorium at midday today [September 1]. Family flowers only, but donations may be made payable to Parkinson’s UK sent c/o Jerry March Funeral Services, 28 Holt Road, Horsford, NR10 3DD or online via the donations page at www.jerrymarchfuneralservices.co.uk
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