It is with deep sadness that we learn of the recent passing of Geoff Charley on Father’s Day (21 June).

Geoff was known to many through his family business, Townfields Saddlers who are a regular trade stand exhibitors known to many in the equestrian community as well as among those in the shooting world.

He was deeply involved with equestrian sports from a young age when he was involved with gymkhanas and show jumping, then later developing a love for hunting, team chasing and point to pointing. Later in life he set up a riding school where he started selling second hand saddles; this was what would eventually lead to him setting up the family owned saddlery. He went back into competing and qualified on several occasions at HOYS in the Working Hunter of the Year final.

Alongside his family, Geoff has been running Townfields Saddlers near Coventry for over fifty years as well as taking the business to the biggest horse shows on the circuit including Eventing, Showing and show jumping competitions as well as the Game Fair. He was one of the first ever exhibitors at most of if not all the old established events from day one.

He was very popular at events, Hugh Thomas, Director of Badminton Horse Trials commented: "Geoff will be sadly missed by all the Show Organisers - he was a real character who contributed hugely to the atmosphere in a successful trade stand village."

Geoff leaves behind him his wife Gill, their children Adrian and Sarah, Adrians Wife Julie and four grandchildren: Ben, William, Tom and Harry. His daughter Sarah commented on her father: “He built Townfields to what it is today because he loved horse sports and adored working alongside his family. In fact spending time with family, especially his Grandchildren, was one of his great loves, alongside fishing and shooting and being part of the equestrian fraternity.”

A private family funeral will take place on Tuesday 7th July 2015 at Moreton Morrell Church. Following this, a service to celebrate Geoff’s life will take place at 3pm at Walton Hall Hotel & Spa, Walton, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire. CV35 9HU followed by afternoon tea.

The family kindly ask for family flowers only please but if you would like to make a donation in memory of Geoff, please donate to the British Heart Foundation www.bhf.org.uk c/o A. Pargetter & Sons Funeral Directors, City Mews, Lamb Street, Coventry. CV1 4AE Telephone: 024 7622 3343.