A NORTH Yorkshire gamekeeper has received an award for 40 years in his industry.

Mike Tipping, head gamekeeper for the 7,000 acre Place Newton estate at Wintringham, near Malton, has been presented with a Long Service Award by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

Mr Tipping began his career in 1971 at the age of 23, on the Welburn Estate near Kirkbymoorside before moving on to the Castle Howard Estate near York.

He joined the Place Newton Estate in Ryedale in 1986, where he has now been head gamekeeper for 25 years.

Seventeen years ago he was joined by his son Matthew, who works alongside his father on the estate as a second gamekeeper.

Place Newton estate owner Hugh Cholmley said: "Mike is an extremely hard working man, who has helped our estate achieve recognition as one of the best shoots in the county.

“This award is very well deserved and a fitting tribute to his dedication and professionalism."

The award was presented to Mike by the Duke of Kent, accompanied by the Duke of Marlborough and CLA President William Worsley, at The CLA Game Fair, Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.