THE man in charge of policing at the region's biggest agricultural event for several years has been honoured for his work.

Nigel Morgan has organised security at the Great Yorkshire Show, in Harrogate, for the past 12 years.

He retired after 33 years with North Yorkshire Police and has been presented with an area commander's commendation by Chief Superintendent Bernie Mitchell.

During his years in the force, he was police commander for several major events, including co-ordinating anti-terrorist operations in March 1996 for the Conservative Party Conference, in Harrogate, three months after the Canary Wharf bombing.

He was also responsible for the police operation for the football match between Harrogate Railway and Bristol City in the second round of the FA Cup in the 2002/2003 season.

Since retiring from the force with the rank of inspector, he has joined the staff at Yorkshire Agricultural Society as operations manager for the Great Yorkshire Show.

Married with two children, Mr Morgan was born and attended school in Harrogate.

Meanwhile, key appointments have been made by the team behind the show.

Hazel Baker is the Yorkshire Agricultural Society's new education advisor and will work with schools throughout the region.

Di Kirkman has taken on a role as events administrator with responsibility for education.

Their first main task will be to stage the society's annual Countryside Days on May 24 and 25, when about 5,000 children will visit the showground in Harrogate to learn about farming and the countryside.