A FARMER has been honoured for his lifelong work in the family business and helping his colleagues.

David Maughan is to become an MBE for his dedicated work to farming.

Last night, he said: "The first we heard about it was when a letter arrived about five weeks ago.

"It was totally out of the blue. You cannot imagine how surprised I felt. I had to pinch myself.

"I am pleased and delighted for the family.

"Like everyone, I wondered what I have done to deserve this. I am very grateful for it."

The son of a farmer, Mr Maughan earned his first tenancy aged 25. He has also taken up several positions with key farming groups.

His father, Jack, was a farmer on the Raby Estate, County Durham.

Mr Maughan, who was originally from High Coniscliffe, Darlington, and his twin brother, Peter, both worked on the farm and later had their own farms.

Mr Maughan runs his farm at Morton Tinmouth, between Darlington and Staindrop.

He has about 250 cows and 340 acres of arable land. He has also recently added 18,000 free-range poultry to the business.

Mr Maughan said: "It is lovely to farm in Teesdale. We are a busy farm. Most of the time I enjoy it and it can be very satisfying.

"Moving into the free-range poultry was a good business move. It has kept our business fairly strong."

Mr Maughan has been a leading member of the farming community and is a former secretary and president of the Young Farmers' movement.

He has also been involved with the NFU in a number of positions, including county chairman for several years, and the North-East Livestock Board.

He was affected by the foot-and-mouth crisis when his herd had to be culled.

Mr Maughan said: "Many other farmers have been involved, so I feel a little bit humble to be honoured.

"I have been active over a number of years and tried to help other farmers."

He has a son, William, who works on the farm, and two daughters, Jane and Rachel, with his wife, Lorna.