A FORMER Hampshire strawberry grower who was well known within the local community has died.

Danny Wilson, passed away at the age of 87.

Born in Titchfield Mr Wilson’s carried out National Service and spent five years in the Merchant Navy.

He then returned to Locks Heath in 1955 where he started growing the Royal Sovereign variety of strawberry on several rented parcels of land part-time.

By 1967, Mr Wilson was able to become a full-time strawberry grower and continued to build the business, supported by wife Pamela.

In 1985 he sold up his Hampshire business and started up near Bristol where he built up a substantial Farm Shop and Pick Your Own business.

In 2010, at the ripe old age of 80, Mr Wilson retired and move into a bungalow in Locks Heath.

Mr Wilson, who was also a great horse racing and country music fan, leaves a widow, Pamela, three sons, a daughter and four grandchildren.

His cremation will take place on Monday, January 29 in Portchester.