FARM workers who have devoted their working lives to agriculture were honoured by the Duchess of Gloucester at the Suffolk Show today.

John Howard

FARM workers who have devoted their working lives to agriculture were honoured by the Duchess of Gloucester at the Suffolk Show today.

The Duchess presented the long service and outstanding service awards as part of an event recognising the stars of the show, all of whom are passionate about agriculture and communities they serve.

The committed group have worked for the same farm or bosses for decades, with the longest serving notching up 70 years.

Jack Creasy, 85, received the award for the longest service at a farm in Stanningfield.

Mr Creasy started work aged just 14 and through the years has worked with both horses and tractors.

He was still ploughing 150 acres last year and when not on the land, enjoys gardening.

He said: “I received an award for 50 years here and I am surprised and honoured to be recognised again.

“I enjoyed my time on the farm, and if I had my time again I would do the same again. If you are content in your working life it makes everything else easy.

“I started ploughing with horses and finished with tractors. The old tractor seats were so uncomfortable that you would go home with the imprint still on you.

“They also made a terrific noise but nowadays all tractors are air-conditioned and have stereos, which is quite cushy.

“I enjoy farming because it is not repetitive; it's not like working in a factory. Two days are never alike and the seasons are always changing around you, as well as the weather and I love the outdoor life.”

The award winners were: Peter Branson who had done 30 years, Philip Turner, 30 years; Paul Block, 32 years; Nevil Caley, 35 years; Ernie Meekings, 35 years; Nigel Copping, 40 years; Stephen Goddard, 40 years; David Neave, 40 years; Trevor Phillips, 44 years; Roy Peters, 45 years; Tony Turp, 47 years; Richard Ashley, 48 years; David Smith, 50 years; Brian Taylor, 50 years; John Want, 53 years; Ted Last, 55 years; Edgar Cole, 60 years; Jack Creasy, 70 years.

Four people also received awards for outstanding services to agriculture in Suffolk and they were Gee Harvey, Mark Partridge, John Smyth and Bruce Sutherland.