A FARMER who helped set up a rural crime fighting scheme missed his first operation in 25 years- for a date at Buckingham Palace.

Peter Stubbs was awarded an MBE by the Duke of Cambridge this morning (Friday, November 14) for his outstanding services to policing in County Durham.

He and wife Gladys, from Teesdale, and John Bradshaw, from Weardale, started night patrols with a group of volunteers back in 1989.

That led to the creation of Farm Watch, similar to Neighbourhood Watch but targeting rural crime, and in the 25 years it has been running its operations have led to arrests, the recovery of property and the gathering of useful intelligence.

A highlight of the initiative came 18 years ago when volunteers helped police carry out dawn raids and secure prison sentences for a gang of criminals from the Bishop Auckland area who were charged with conspiracy to steal motor vehicles.

Mr Stubbs, 72, from Kinninvie, near Barnard Castle, said: “When the letter arrived back in May I was absolutely bowled over and delighted.

“This is a once in a lifetime achievement and it’s what dreams are made of.

“I have worked with the police and lots of volunteers over the last 25 years and I believe the secret and success of Farm Watch is simply people working well together.”

Durham's Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Hogg, said: “I would personally like to thank Peter as well as the many other volunteers for all of their work over the years, without Peter’s drive and determination and leading by example this scheme would not be the success it is today.”

In order to reach London in time for the investiture ceremony, hosted on behalf of the Queen by Prince William, Mr Stubbs was unable to join a Farm Watch operation held across six force areas on Thursday night.

In the Durham Dales more than 40 volunteers assisted officers.

Three youths with lurcher dogs and lamps were stopped on farmland near Stanhope and reported for poaching offences, one of whom was arrested for carrying a knife and small quantity of drugs, and two men were arrested for attempted burglary in Wolsingham.

Neighbourhood Inspector Kevin Tuck added: “Peter has been an inspiration to many of us over the years.

“After 25 years of always being available we felt we could miss him for one night on the latest operation so that he could collect his MBE.

“ I’ve been a part of the planning and cross border operations for ten years and have worked alongside Peter in this time.

“His passion and commitment has impressed so many people who live in Teesdale.”

Farm Watch continue to look for funding opportunities and donations can be made via UTASS (Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services) based at Middleton-in-Teesdale.

To become a volunteer contact PCSOs Liz Finn and Tracy Bilton on 101.