A PARK Authority has bid farewell to its chairman of five years.

John Fletcher stood down last month after 18 years as a member of the North York Moors National Park Authority.

A new chair will be elected at a full meeting on June 27.

John Fletcher was appointed by Hambleton District Council and during his time with the National Park Authority oversaw the introduction of the modern apprenticeship scheme and the £1.2 million redevelopment of The Moors National Park Centre in Danby, North Yorkshire.

He said: "I have learnt an incredible amount and will miss the friendship of both members and staff.

"I have never failed to be impressed at the competence and professionalism shown in delivering National Park purposes in the visitor centres, on the moor tops and by all who work for the authority."