Alfred Leslie Simpson – Les

On  30th April 2024, peacefully in hospital, Les, aged 96 years of Simonstone. The dearly loved husband of Brenda, much loved dad of Steve, Phil and Bev, dear father in law of Gill, Andrea and Jes, loving grandad of Laura, Amy, David, Sarah, Rebecca, Jake, Alex, Joseph and Jaeger and great grandad of  Rosie, Erin, Owen, Emmeline, Penelope, Leo, Isaac and Reuben.    

Les, was born into a farming family at New House Farm, Winmarleigh near Garstang.

After working on the family farm during his teenage years, Les decided to pursue his ambition to become a police officer.

Following his training at Bruche in Warrington he was first posted to Darwen and then moved with his wife Brenda to Guide Bridge in Ashton Under Lyne.

After a few years experience in urban policing, he grasped the opportunity to become the ‘village bobby’ in Sabden. It was here where he rekindled his love for farming.

Back to his roots, taking over the tenancy of Lower Barn Farm, Sabden in 1959 and later a much bigger challenge at High House Farm near Higham. He remained in farming at High House until his retirement at the age of 72.

Throughout his life Les loved being at the centre of group activities and organisations. An active member and Chairman of Padiham Round Table, founder member and Chairman of the Over Forties Club Padiham, he made friendships which lasted throughout his life.

Les was the Chair of The Royal Lancashire Show Committee and was an integral part of the show’s success under his stewardship.

Les was also an active member of the National Farmer’s Union in Lancashire. As part of this role he had the pleasure of meeting Queen Elizabeth II on two occasions. The first was part of a royal visit to Lancashire in 1968 and the highlight was to be invited to the Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in July 1987.

Latterly, following his retirement from farming Les took up a new challenge playing golf when he joined Whalley Golf Club where he made many close friends and played into his 95^th year with the ‘super seniors.’

Throughout most of his life Brenda has been his constant companion. Supporting him in achieving his aspirations she was the love of his life. Married in 1954 at Winmarleigh they enjoyed  just short of 70 years of  marriage.

Family life was extremely important to Les enjoying the many family celebrations over the years. He particularly enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren visiting him at the farm and their bungalow.

Les and Brenda loved being involved in their son’s business ‘Simpsons Furniture’ and their daughter Beverley’s hairdressing business ‘Headquarters’ giving advice and invaluable support when needed. He was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren often telling his friends and others about their achievements.,

Donations in lieu of flowers are being gratefully received on behalf of St Nicholas Church Sabden

Please feel free to leave a message for Les’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

Shirley Wolfenden nee Atkinson

Good farming neighbour ajolning our farm

Simon, Lisa, Elliot & Zach Bywater

Sincere condolences to you all and lots of love xxxxx