TRIBUTES have been paid to a Hampshire farmer who died after being charged by a bull.

The man, named as Ian Rook, from Clanfield, near Petersfield, was killed as he attempted to move the animal between two groups of cattle.

A passer-by ran to the nearby farm house to call for emergency assistance but when they returned to the scene, the farmer had died from his injuries.

William White, south-east regional director for the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), described the dead man as an experienced farmer and an “all-round good bloke”.

Mr White knew Mr Rook through his work as a treasurer and county chairman for the NFU.

Geoff Wilson, landlord at the nearby Rising Sun, said that Mr Rook used to pop in occasionally and was a well liked member of the community.

Mr Rook leaves a wife and two sons.