Tributes to well-known horseman (From Western Telegraph)

Tributes to well-known horseman

THE County Show is tainted with sadness this week after the sudden death of a popular and well-known competitor.

Nigel Williams, who ran the butcher's shop in Prendergast for more than 30 years, died suddenly of a heart attack on Thursday while competing at the United Counties Show.

The keen horserider, who was known to his friends as the 'flying butcher', collapsed while taking part in the inter-hunt relay at the Carmarthen show.

Nigel, who lived at Thorn Rise in Camrose, was taken to Glangwili Hospital, but sadly died.

His son Anthony said: "As you would expect, everyone is devastated."

"It is a shock and we all feel quite numb."

The 48-year-old, who would have celebrated his 49th birthday today (Wednesday), was described by family and friends as a 'fun-loving' person, who lived every moment of life to the full.

"A friend said the other day that he had a short life, but that he lived three and I think that fits in pretty much perfectly," said his partner, Kay.

Nigel, who also owned Widow Twankey's Launderette in Prendergast, was due to compete at the County Show this week, with the Pembrokeshire Hunt team which has experienced much success.

Showjumping steward, Cynthia Higgon, said: "He was a competitor who gave his all and thoroughly enjoyed every moment.

"He put a tremendous amount into it and he enjoyed it as much as people enjoyed watching him."

His mother Joyce, said her son was a 'one-off' and loved the public stage. "When he competed in the inter-hunt relay he would take the applause. While the others rode around doing a lap of honour, he was like a king or queen waving to everyone."

Special tribute was paid to the well-liked rider at the President's lunch yesterday (Tuesday).

The inter-hunt relay was postponed as a mark of respect.

He leaves to mourn son Anthony and his wife Alanda, Nigel's only grandchild Nigella, daughter Andrea, partner Kay, sister Pam and mother Joyce.

His funeral took place yesterday (Tuesday), at Bethesda in Haverfordwest.