Demands were made on his time and he accepted more and more public work. He was the youngest Chairman ever of the Brockenhurst Branch of the NFU and he later became Hampshire delegate at NFU headquarters in London. He served as a member of the NFU Development Company and was a member of the Agriculture Improvement Council for England and Wales. Sadly only indifferent health prevented him from taking higher office. His commercial vision saw him as a founder member and Vice-Chairman of the Hampshire Cattle Breeders’ Society and Chairman of the all-important Bull selection Committee. He was invited to be a member of the Hampshire Agricultural Executive Committee and soon Vice- Chairman of SCATS Ltd. and was a founder member for the Central Council of Growmore Clubs.
The Fareham and Hants Farmers Club, amongst many other organisations attracted his attention. When President and Chairman of Council, he re-organised the existing format of the old show and Stallion Travelling Society to a modern Club. The very successful Farms Competition benefited from his organising ability and such was the quality and standard of his own farming he consistently featured as the championship prize winner on many occasions for the Best managed farm in Hampshire.
As a former President of the New Milton Chamber of Trade, an active member of the Avon and Stour Agricultural Society and a former Chairman of the Grasshoppers, these organisations were all lucky to have his support and wise council. He always took a great interest in the Young Farmers movement and particularly to young men starting in farming. His perfection and attention to detail which was evident on his own farms, together with his sound knowledge and good judgement of all stock was an inspiration to all.
On 20 February 1970, John died suddenly and the agricultural world was very shocked and a deep expression of sympathy went out to his young family, and to Angela, his wife who has since its foundation served as Chairman of the Trust established in his name. His friendship and warmth of his infectious personality were irreplaceable, but the John Edgar Trust perpetuates his memory and continues his lifelong work of promoting excellence in farming and rural businesses in southern England.