Tributes have been paid to leading Ledbury landowner, the Honourable Edward Biddulph, who died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Much Marcle, last Thursday.

His funeral will take place in St Michael and All Angels' Church, on Friday, November 9, at 2pm.

Mr Biddulph, aged 67, was the last of an aristocratic family to still live in Ledbury, the town that saw them rise to greatness in keeping with their family motto, Let us aim at loftier things.

Michael Biddulph, the son of Robert Biddulph, a 19th Century Herefordshire MP, became the first Baron Biddulph of Ledbury in 1903.

Edward Biddulph was uncle to the fifth Baron, Anthony Biddulph, who lives in London and Kelso, Scotland.

Mr Biddulph was a beneficiary of The Biddulph Children's Trust and, as major local landowner, allowed Ledbury Park to be used for a number of community events, including the annual Round Table bonfire, on behalf of charity.

Mr Biddulph lived a quiet life at his home, Ribston Lawn. But he kept an interested eye on community events and, in January 2000, offered Ledbury Park as a possible site for the new Community Hospital.

Educated at Eton, he joined the army and saw action as an officer in Cyprus. His friend, Sir Thomas Dunne, Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, said he was known not only for his sense of humour and eccentricity but also his physical bravery.

In the 1950s, Mr Biddulph was commended by a judge after chasing and catching a burglar in London.

While in the army, he was once given the last rites on Salisbury Plain after being involved in a car accident. He survived, albeit with the legacy of a pin in his leg.

Sir Thomas said: "He very much spoke his mind. But he was a life-enhancer and a most enjoyable companion."

Mr Biddulph's chief interest in life was horse racing and he had a share in a racehorse. Just days before his sudden death, he was celebrating a win in France.

Sir Thomas said: "That gave him a great deal of pleasure."