Tributes paid to Reading Festival site tenant farmer

Tributes have been paid to Josephine “Mavis” Drayton, the long-standing tenant farmer of the Reading Festival site, who passed away in early July following a short illness.

She died peacefully surrounded by her family.

Mavis farmed Little John’s Farm in Reading, the site of the world-renowned Reading Festival, for nearly three decades.

See also: Tributes paid to Norfolk farming great David Richardson

Her connection to the land ran even deeper, taking over the tenancy from her father Desmond in 1997.

The Drayton family had been associated with the site since the 1950s.

Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) chief executive George Dunn described Mavis as a passionate custodian of the land, who embraced both farming and festival life.

“Mavis had a passion for the farm, a love for the flora and fauna supported by it and, of course, a heart for the festival,” said Mr Dunn.

“She worked tirelessly year-round to manage the site, even during the immense logistical challenge of preparing for over 85,000 festival-goers.

“Her pragmatism and dedication ensured that a working farm and a major event could successfully coexist.”

With the Reading Festival set to return this weekend (21-24 August), Mavis’s absence will be felt deeply by those who knew her work behind the scenes.

Mavis’s niece, Sally Lempriere, who worked closely with her for many years, is now overseeing the farm’s management.

Lasting legacy

“Mavis is irreplaceable,” said Sally. “Her strong spirit and ability to call a spade a spade were her hallmarks.

“She’s left a lasting legacy at Little John’s Farm and within the local community.

“It’s hard to believe she’s gone, but I hope to honour her memory in the way I care for the land.”

The TFA has invited festival-goers to take a moment this weekend to reflect on Mavis’s contribution to the iconic site.