A popular local farmer died suddenly during the Pembrokeshire Hunt Ball at Haverfordwest County Showground on Saturday.

Peter Lewis Evans, aged 48, from Hayscastle, was given immediate medical attention by a doctor who was a fellow guest at the ball.

Police were called to the Parkhouse Building within the County Showground at approximately 2.15am on Sunday morning.

Mr Evans and his wife Sue were third-generation farmers at Upper Hayscastle Farm and would have been married for 20 years this spring. They have two daughters, 10-year-old Caryl and seven-year-old Mari.

Mrs Evans said: "He was a devoted family man and father. He was popular and fun-loving, and enjoyed life to the full. He always had a smile on his face and was always willing to offer help to anyone that needed it."

Mr Evans was the eldest son of Mansel and Jean Evans, formerly of Broadmoor Farm, Wolfscastle.

Upper Hayscastle Farm was one of the first in Wales to be used in trials for growing willow trees and the family also runs Hayscastle fishery.

Friends and members of the farming community have expressed shock and sadness at the news.

Peter Evans had strong hunt connections and the local hunt regularly used his land.

The coroner has been informed of Mr Evans' death although there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Mr Evans' funeral will be held on Saturday, January 20, at St Mary's Church, Hayscastle, at 11.30am.

Family flowers only but donations in lieu for Cancer Research to T C Griffiths, Bryn Siriol, Wolfscastle, SA62 5LY.