BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson was the guest speaker as more than 200 members of the Durham Grassland Society met for their annual dinner in Teesdale.
Welcomed by chairman david Dobson, he brought members up to date on his story so far and his role in the agriculture industry.
The Cotswold farmer also spoke on the future of the sector and the challenges facing young farmers and those coming into the business.
Rebecca Tiplady, secretary of the Durham Grassland Society said: “It was a great pleasure to meet such a down to earth, genuinely nice guy, who put himself out to make everyone feel important.
“He fitted in very well and has a wicked sense of humour that certainly made the crowd laugh.”
The annual dinner was held at the Morritt Hotel, Greta Bridge. A raffle raised £255 for the Great North Air Ambulance and £255 for the society.
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