Owner of popular riding centre dies aged 67 after cancer battle

June Haydon, 67, was diagnosed with primary peritoneal cancer, which is a very rare type of cancer of the abdomen, in 2010 and bravely fought the condition for almost five years.

Her husband Bob Pearson said: "She used to run a lot and one day while out on a run she had a bad stitch.

"She went to the doctors and was diagnosed with primary peritoneal cancer. She was treated at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, Royal Marsden Hospital in London and The Priory.

"She had good and bad days and was very brave. People did not know she was ill."

But Mr Pearson said six weeks ago the cancer spread and she died on February 6 at her lake side home with two of her daughters and himself.

Mrs Haydon took over Prescott Equestrian Centre on Milford Road, Baschurch, in December 1986 after her father purchased the business for her.

Over time she development the business to become a successful equestrian and lived in Prescott House with her five children – Andrew Haydon, Angelina Haydon, Emma Barton, Oliver Haydon and Zoe Griffiths.

She later married Mr Pearson in May 2012 and enjoying running and spending time with her family.

Mr Pearson said: "June idealised her grand children – she had four – and loved spending time with them.

"She will be sorely missed by all."

Last year June submitted an application for the demolition of existing equestrian buildings to build 26 homes.

At the time she said she submitted the plans with a "heavy heart" as she was forced to look at other long term options for the site because of the economic climate and the current condition of the buildings.

Mr Pearson added: "The top part of the complex was sold off as housing a few years ago and we built a home by the side of the carp lake about eight or nine years ago.

"June has been continuing to run the equestrian centre but recently decided to submit a planning application.

"We have recently resubmitted a plan to reduce the number of homes to 19 which planning officers are more positive about.

"The plans are now waiting consideration from Shropshire Council's planning committee.

"In the meantime the equestrian centre is still being run and we offer a wide range of facilities including lessons, horse shows and livery."

June's funeral will be held at Shrewsbury Crematorium tomorrow (TUE FEB 17) at 4pm and the wake will be held afterwards at the Lord Hill Hotel in Shrewsbury. All donations will be given to Cancer Research UK.