More than 1,000 years of service to the agricultural industry were being recognised today at the region's premier agricultural event, the Great Yorkshire Show.

In total, 26 individuals who between them have worked for 1,035 years in the industry, were being honoured by the show organisers, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

The 25 men and one woman represent a variety of skills and interests - among them are herdsmen, tractor drivers, forestry staff, a payroll administrator, stockmen and a head gamekeeper.

To mark their immense contribution, all have been invited to a presentation ceremony on the second day of the show. They were receiving an engraved tankard, a certificate and a badge giving free admission for life to future shows. Payroll administrator Mrs Sue Butler, of Rillington, Malton was receiving a glass goblet rather than a tankard.

The awards will be presented by the President of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, Mr Nigel Forbes Adams at 3.45pm.

The society's medal awarded annually to the best student of agriculture at Leeds University, was also presented today. It has been awarded to Richard Slade of Southlands Avenue, Leeds. Richard is a mature student and has a first-class Honours Degree in Animal Science. He has recently completed a project on nutrition of weaned piglets, but is remaining at university to take his PhD on the subject. Richard is also a livestock exhibitor - he is showing Texels at the show.

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