A WEST Dorset farmer has been confirmed as the new president of a village's agricultural society after being part of the group for more than six decades.

Michael Fooks, who works at Manor Farm in the hamlet of North Poorton, was announced at the Melplash Agricultural Society's annual general meeting.

The group was set up by the farming community in 1847 and is a registered charity aiming to support agriculture in west Dorset.

It also organises the annual Melplash Agricultural Show, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 24.

Mr Fooks said he was 'very honoured and privileged' to be elected as president. 

"The society has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember," he added.

"When I was at school, Melplash Show was the last day out before going back to school for the autumn term.

"Now as a farmer and father myself, it is the same for my children and their children too.

"All of them are actively involved with the society and the Melplash Show is a fantastic shop window for us local farmers."

Mr Fooks' grandfather took on Manor Farm back in the 1920s and it has been traded across generations. 

Along with his siblings he trades as Fooks Brothers and enjoys 800 acres of farmland.

For more information on the Melplash Show visit www.melplashshow.co.uk