A COUNTRYSIDE agency's new base in Wensleydale has honoured one of its staff.

English Nature relocates from Thornborough Hall in Leyburn to offices at Asquith House, on the town's business park, on Tuesday.

The name recognises the commitment of Ted Asquith, who began forging links with Dales farmers as an employee of the Ministry of Agriculture before taking up his new post with English Nature.

At English Nature he has been responsible for the organisation's work with owners of land designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

English Nature's director of operations, Andy Clements, said: "The opening will be a celebration of one man's efforts to protect the environment of the area.

"By naming the new office Asquith House, we are recognising the exceptional contribution Ted has made over the years in forging good working links with farmers and integrating nature conservation with practical farm management throughout the Dales."

Mr Asquith said: "This is an unexpected honour and a great privilege to be so closely associated with the good work of English Nature.

"In some small way, I hope my name will remind all who work in the new office that, to further improve the natural landscape of the dales, the spirit of partnership between conservationists and land managers needs to continue.