TRIBUTES have been paid to a Somerset farmer and business owner who has died at the age of 76.

Alan Janes founded Briarwood Products more than 40 years ago from his farm in Puxton and the business grew to become the UK's largest supplier of fibre cement.

Mr Janes passed away on Monday (January 11) at his home surrounded by his family.

During his life Mr Janes was a farmer, cattle dealer and businessman and he will be remembered for his entrepreneurial achievements as well as his long-term support of the farming community.

Oliver Janes, Alan’s son and director of Briarwood Products, said his father's dedication to improving British farming led him to develop an innovative profiled sheet designed specifically to meet the demands of the UK climate, and throughout his lifetime he continued farming, as well as his involvement in Briarwood Products.

He said: “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart, that I have to be the bearer of the very sad news that my Father Alan Janes passed away on 11th January at the age of 76.

"He went peacefully at home surrounded by his family as he would have wanted. We all feel very lucky to have had one last Christmas with him as it was his favourite time of the year.

"The family are now taking some time out to mourn a great man who will be very much missed. In the meantime, the Briarwood group of companies will continue to operate under their respective management teams.

"We are still making arrangements for the funeral which is very difficult given the current restrictions. However, we would like anyone who would like to pay their respects to be able to do so in whatever way possible and we will make a further announcement in the coming days.”