A former regional journalist who went on to edit the Farmers Guardian newspaper has died aged 86.

Gerald Henderson, left, was editor of the Preston-based Farmers Guardian from 1987 to 2005.

Prior to that, he had worked on the Lancashire Daily Post, a forerunner to the Lancashire Post, and the Preston Guardian.

While Farmers Guardian editor, Gerald oversaw an increase in circulation from 40,000 to 55,200 copies per week, making it Britain’s fastest-growing paid-for farming newspaper.

An obituary in the Lancashire Post states: “His appointment to the editor’s chair was welcomed by staff across both editorial and commercial departments – a reflection of the esteem in which he was held and the high standards he insisted on delivering.

“In the early days of Farmers Guardian, as well a reporting on farming and farming politics, he had specialised in the poultry sector, reflecting the importance of that sector in the North-West at the time.

“In recognition of his work he was presented with an award for his outstanding contribution to agricultural communication by the Guild of Agricultural Journalists.”

Gerald celebrated his 65th wedding anniversary with wife Irene in June, and is also survived by sons Martin and Stuart, and five grandchildren.

His funeral will be held tomorrow.