WALTER Bainbridge, of Seamer, is celebrating 60 years as a Methodist local preacher.

He recently received a certificate from Stokesley Methodist Circuit and speakers paid tribute to him at a service in Great Ayton.

A farmer at Greytones, he often travels 500 miles a week to cattle marts but rises early in the morning to study the Bible.

For 60 years, he has preached around the area and he was at the Springfield House nursing home in Stokesley on Sunday.

Normally, he takes one service per month.

"I'm in my 89th year and I think our superintendent minister, Richard Bradshaw, makes an allowance for that," he quipped.

He grew up at Low Worsall and attended chapel regularly with his parents.

"I have great memories of Sunday school, and the afternoon and evening services."

He had a religious experience around the age of 12, while seriously ill in hospital.

"I remember my dad saying don't forget to say your prayers. I was really poorly and very nearly passed away. But a lot of people remarked about how I acted during that illness. I eventually recovered and felt so thankful I'd been saved.

"I realised my blessing and had an eagerness to share that wonderful conversion experience with others. That has continued throughout my life."

He began preaching after a Picton minister, the Rev John William Dent, tapped him on his shoulder and suggested it. He moved to his Seamer farm in 1943 and his late wife, Peggy, of Ingleby Arncliffe, also preached. Their sons and grandsons now work on the farm.

At the Great Ayton service, an affectionate and witty tribute was made by Coun Ron Kirk, an accountant and parish councillor who was taught by Mr Bainbridge at Sunday school.

The service also honoured Kirklevington man Joe Tregoning, who has preached for 40 years.