The fruit industry has expressed its sadness following the death of Adrian Scripps, who passed away on 18 November aged 86.
Adrian was described by one contemporary as a ‘giant’ in the topfruit sector, whose acumen and skill led an initial farm tenancy 60 years ago to become Tonbridge-based Adrian Scripps Ltd , one of the leading UK fruit growers which today produces around 750 ha of apples, blackcurrants and grapes in Kent.
In a statement the company said, ‘It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr Adrian Scripps on Saturday 18th of November. He started farming in 1956 and built the foundations of the business as it is today. He was for so many years the energetic driver of the business, an innovator and very much a pioneer within the industry. He will be greatly missed by colleagues, friends and family.’
Company managing director James Simson told the FPJ, “Adrian Scripps was a topfruit pioneer in the UK and a real force behind many industry initiatives over the years.”