Andrew Potts gave no indication to his colleagues at Chelford Market, where he worked part-time, that he was so depressed about his future in the industry.

The popular 31-year-old, who farmed near Macclesfield, told family and friends of his frustration at being unable to make a living as a farmer.

"Andrew was a private person, but he was a very bright and cheerful person," said Alistair Watson, Andrew's boss at Chelford.

"We're all absolutely shocked and devastated by it.

"It was the last thing we expected and the last person we would have expected to have done this."

Plummeting milk prices sparked by the BSE crisis, the strong pound and the stranglehold of the dairies and supermarkets have devastated the Knutsford dairy industry in recent years.

"I don't know if anyone will stand up and take notice," said Mr Watson. "That's the sad thing.

"I don't know what to say - I'm absolutely devastated."

Mr Potts, who was unmarried, was discovered at 6.45am in an outbuilding on his son's farm in Henbury.

An inquest has been opened and adjourned.

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