Born Samuel George Armstrong Vestey on 19 March, 1941, he became the third Baron Vestey on the death of his grandfather in 1954. His father the Captain Hon William Howarth Vestey had been killed in action in 1944 during the Second World War.

Lord Vestey’s death comes soon after that of his wife Celia, who died suddenly last November at the age of 71.

Lord and Lady Vestey were passionate equestrians and supporters of British Eventing having hosted Stowell Park Horse Trials at their home for many years. The Vestey's took great pleasure in owning Event horses with their most notable achievement being Arakai, claiming a team silver medal with Ian Stark at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, and more recently, as involved, encouraging and enthusiastic owners, with Harry Meade.

Lord Vestey was also a successful racehorse owner and former chairman of Cheltenham racecourse (1990 – 2011).

Lord Vestey held the position of master of the horse for the royal household from 1999 to 2018 and was a close personal friend of both The Queen and the Prince of Wales.

Lord Vestey leaves five children, Saffron and Flora from his marriage to his first wife Kathryn Eccles and William, Arthur and Mary from his marriage to Celia, as well as grandchildren.

Lord Vestey will be missed by the Eventing community and our thoughts are with his family and friends.