Tributes have been paid to Ian Brisby, described as a ‘great innovator’ in our industry, who has died at the age of 71.
Ian was behind the rise of Newsham Hybrid Pigs, based in North Yorkshire, and continued working for the company after it was taken over by JSR in 2000. When JSR Newsham acquired Cotswold Pig development company it became JSR Genetics, where Ian worked until he retired in 2004.
Former colleague James Christian, who has worked for Newsham and JSR, said: “Anyone who worked for or with Ian will know he was both innovative and inspirational.
“He created an environment full of enthusiasm and fun, leading with his vision but having the humility to allow everyone to contribute. Ian gave everyone the belief that they could do what needed to be done and the support to develop their own ideas.
“Ian was ahead of his time with his ideas and his legacy in the pig industry lives on, he will be greatly missed by all.”
Grant Walling, JSR’s director of science and technology, said: “Ian was a great innovator and was always brimming with ideas, with a number of his projects still running today, such as the supply chain for the Sainsbury’s Taste The Difference fresh pork range.”
Ian died on Monday, November 20 and his funeral took place at East Riding Crematorium on Tuesday, December 5.
He was a loving husband of Joyce, devoted father of Jim and Charlotte, much loved grandad to Amelie, Zane, Archie and Oliver.