The former landlord of the Alma and the Ship pubs in Wandsworth Town, who opened the first gastro-pub in London, has died after an accident at his farm in Surrey.

Charles Gotto, is believed to have died after a tractor reversed into him while he was working in Ockley on Sunday.

The 66-year-old ran a number of pubs with his wife Linda and is credited with being an innovative entrepreneur.

Steve Goodyear, chief executive of Youngs, which owns both pubs, said: “Charles Gotto was a wonderful man and great entrepreneur. His involvement with Young’s spanned over 25 years and he forged the way, creating unique and market leading pubs.

“The Ship and The Alma, both in Wandsworth, became iconic pubs under his leadership and The Ship was the first gastro-pub in London. The contribution Charles and Linda Gotto made to Young’s will never be forgotten and Charles will be much missed by all who knew him as great man and brilliant pub operator.”

Oisin Rogers, general manager at The Ship, said Mr Gotto ran popular riverside pub near Wandsworth Bridge from 1981 to 2006 was well respected in the industry.

He said: “He was very well known and was doing things like sourcing his own food years before anyone else.”