AFTER more than four decades of working for the same family, 64-year-old Herbert Simpson has finally decided to retire.

At a special party laid on in his honour, he was presented with a plethora of presents to mark their high regard.

Mr Simpson has had 41 years of continuous service with the Jameson family, who run WE Jameson and Son, in Leyburn Road, Masham.

He went to work for Eddie Jameson at Manor Farm, Snape, at the age of 23 in 1961. He also worked at Mr Jameson's other farm at Theakston Grange, becoming well-known as a capable arable worker and stockman as well as a mechanic, electrician and maintenance man.

He later transferred to the family feed mill at Masham and in 2000 he was awarded a long service medal by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society for his many years of service.

Mr Simpson, a grandfather, now plans to continue working part-time for the family, but will also be pursuing his many other interests, including restoring and caring for vintage tractors and motorcycles.