AFTER helping to harvest about four million tonnes of timber, one of the Forestry Commission's longest serving workers is hanging up his axe.

George Hodgson, 65, has retired as works supervisor on the North York Moors after joining the Forestry Commission in 1963.

He helped reshape forests such as Cropton and Dalby, near Pickering, and watched the transformation of the industry from manual work to mechanisation.

"Back in the old days we didn't have harvesting machines, but relied on chainsaws and agricultural vehicles," said Mr Hodgson.

"There were also a lot more horses working the woods. Today's machines are computer-controlled and make light work of the job."

Mr Hodgson was born in Thornton Dale and has lived in Dalby Forest since he started at the Forestry Commission.

"Living in the forest means I'll be able to keep an interest in the industry and see how Dalby develops in the future," he said.

District manager Andrew Smith said: "It's rare these days to see an employee putting in 40 years of devoted service at the same place.

"George has made an incredible contribution, witnessing Dalby's growth as a recreational and even as a rock concert venue. He deserves a long and active retirement."