Former High Sheriff of Wiltshire David Margesson, a former president of the Prospect Hospice and chairman of Swindon Magistrates, died on Sunday, aged 74. He has been suffering from cancer.

Mr Margesson, who lived and farmed at Burderop, near Chiseldon, was a magistrate for 33 years and spearheaded the fundraising appeal to build the Prospect Hospice 20 years ago. His work for the hospice earned him an MBE in 2002.

A keen birdwatcher, he also championed charities and organisations improving the wildlife and countryside of Wiltshire.

He leaves his wife, Ruth, a son, two daughters and seven grandchildren.

A private funeral for family members only will be held tomorrow, while a thanksgiving service for his life will be held on March 11, at 2pm in Holy Cross Church, Chiseldon, where he had worshipped for almost 50 years.