Tributes to former Wiltshire Lord-Lieutenant John Bush

John Bush CVO OBE KStJ JP has lots of titles to his name now, but the former Lord-Lieutenant began his life as a farmer at Fullingbridge Farm near Westbury.

Mr Bush worked as chairman of the Countrywide Farmers PLC, a large agricultural retailing company, before becoming council member of the Royal Agricultural Society from 1980 to 1992.

After being elected as chairman of the combined West Wiltshire bench in 1991 and then chairing the Wiltshire Magistrates Courts Committee, Mr Bush took on more roles than possible to name, including the County Council's police committee and the Wiltshire police authority.

However, most residents in Wiltshire will know him as HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, a role which he occupied from 2004 to 2012 after having been High Sheriff of Wiltshire from 1997 to 1998.

John Bush died on  Saturday, May 11, 2024, and despite his prestigious titles, he has been most remembered for his community work and kind nature.

Former Lord-Lieutenant John Bush died on May 11, 2024 (Image: Wiltshire Council)

“John was a much-respected and much-loved figure in our county," said Sarah Troughton, the current HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire.

"He had a wealth of interests, was generous to a fault and leaves behind a loving family and many friends and colleagues who will miss his wisdom, his wit and great charm.

"He was a huge help and mentor not only to me as his successor as Lord-Lieutenant but to many others from many walks of life.

"His adored wife Pam died three years ago, and our thoughts go to his family who will cherish many happy memories of a wonderful man.”

Over 350 mourners attended John Bush's funeral including representatives of The Royal Family. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

Mr Bush was the founding member of the Bobby Van Trust, which provides free home security services to the elderly and vulnerable in Wiltshire, and was also a keen supporter of the Alzheimer's Society, continuing his work with the elderly.

His funeral on Thursday, May 30 at Edington Priory Church was attended by over 350 guests including General Sir Nicholas Parker who was representing His Majesty The King, and Captain Sir Nicholas Wright who represented HRH The Princess Royal.

The mourners were led by Mr Bush’s children, Alex and Carly, together with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Other dignitaries who came to pay their respects to the former Lord-Lieutenant included the High Sheriff, the Chief Constable, the Police and Crime Commissioner, and representatives from the Magistracy, Wiltshire Council, Dean and Chapter of Salisbury Cathedral.