Tributes paid to 22-year-old farmworker

A young farmworker who lost his life after falling into a grain silo has been named as Arthur Mason.

Mr Mason, 22, who died after the incident at Larchwood Foods on Wednesday morning (9 July), is believed to be the son of company owner Hugh Mason.

He was a keen rugby player and history student at the University of Gloucestershire.

Mr Mason’s death has devastated people that knew him and many have paid tribute to him on social media sites, including Facebook and Twitter.

The University of Gloucestershire Men’s rugby union tweeted: “We are devastated to inform anyone who doesn’t know that Arthur Mason passed away yesterday. We love and will miss him beyond words #legend.”

Gloucester community rugby coach Dave Barley tweeted: “Rest in peace Arthur Mason. A gent and a pleasure to coach.”

The university’s tennis club also tweeted: “R.I.P Arthur Mason. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and the @UGRFC team in this hard time.”

His friend Samantha Leach tweeted: “So shocked that @Arthur_C_Mason is no longer with us. Shame to lose such an amazing person. Thoughts are with his family #RIP“.

Police say they not treating Mr Mason’s death as suspicious. The Health and Safety Executive is investigating.

Stewart Dove, Gloucestershire University’s director of student support, said: “The university is saddened to hear of the tragic death of one of its students.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and peers at this extremely difficult time.

“The university’s support services are available over the summer vacation for any student who has been affected by this very sad news.”
According to its website, Larchwood Foods is a family-run business owned by the Mason family.

The Mason family has been farming in Norfolk for more than 200 years in and around Fincham.

Hugh Mason took over running the farm from his father, Maurice, when he was 22. The farms grow rapeseed wheat and sugar beet across 5,000 acres of land.

Larchwood Foods produces a range of extra-virgin, cold pressed rapeseed oil for the retail, food service and manufacturing sectors under the brand name Mr Hugh’s.

Last year, the firm invested in state-of-the-art oilseed processing and bottling facilities alongside its storage barns, dryers, and offices.

Read more on Farm health and safety