TRIBUTES have poured in for a rural champion and show commentator who campaigned to promote the agricultural industry through some of its most turbulent times.

Mike Keeble who was known as “The Voice of the shows” has died aged 77, after a long battle with cancer.

Mr Keeble farmed at East Witton, near Leyburn, but also worked tirelessly at shows and events, commentating at the Great Yorkshire Show, the Wensleydale Show and many others throughout the country. He was also a writer and author.

This year he was presented with the Yorkshire Agricultural Society Award for service and outstanding contribution over the past 40 years.

Great Yorkshire Show Director, Charles Mills said: “Mike Keeble was a wonderful advocate for the industry and an amazing friend to the society. His passion for farming was never more evident than during his cattle commentaries and during the year, he frequently helped us with our events to enthuse young people about agriculture.

"He had the unique ability to relate to people, whether they were five, 15 or 50. The industry has lost a great friend and a superb ambassador.”

For ten years Mr Keeble was involved in society events teaching more than 6,000 primary school children a year about farming and rural life and encouraging young people to get involved in the industry.

Di Kirkman, education co-ordinator, said: “He always had a special spark which connected with youngsters. He was able to make the complexities of farming relevant and fascinating to young people which is a real gift.”

Bob Dixon, chairman of the Wensleydale Show added: "Mike was a really lovely man, his death leaves a huge gap in the industry. It’s a great sadness for our show and so many others. He had a real way of explaining and communicating, using humour and his vast knowledge to get the message across.”

His silver voice and ready wit also opened the way for work in television and radio, recorded countless voice-overs and commercial videos as well as writing several books and a regular column in The Northern Farmer, which is produced by The Northern Echo’s sister paper the Darlington and Stockton Times.

Mike Bridgen Farming Editor of the Darlington and Stockton Times said: "It was a great privilege to have Mike as a main contributor to the magazine. He was a very enthusiastic writer and supporter of The Northern Farmer and a great friend. He will be sorely missed."

Mr Keeble leaves his wife Peta, two daughters, a son, and ten grandchildren.