FORESTRY and arb contractor Richard Jerome has died suddenly at the age of 37.

Known to most as ‘RJ’, Richard had contracts for grass and verge cutting as well as bus routes throughout Hampshire. He was also involved in land clearance and had several large wood-chippers which he used for forestry work.

He was a lover of tractors, which will be illustrated at his funeral on 4 November.

RJ began his career at the age of 16 with a second-hand Zetor tractor and hedge cutter. He progressed from there to owning four Fendt tractors, plus hedge cutters, mulchers and much more.

READ MORE: Hampshire forestry contractor Richard Jerome given tractor motorcade for funeral

He was known for always being in his orange hi-vis jacket.

Very hard working and known by many people throughout the country, he died suddenly in September.

RJ will be sadly missed by his mum, dad, two sisters and the community of friends he worked with and for.

Forestry Journal: