Peter Atkinson has been a churchwarden and parish councillor in Garton-on-the-Wolds for more than half a century.

Now villagers have celebrated his hard work by planting 'Peter's Tree' and have presented him with a plaque.

Cliff Wilson, who served as a parish councillor with Mr Atkinson for 20 years, said he was an inspiration to all and unlikely to be matched.

He said: "I am really in awe of the man because he's done so much for the village and it's doubtful anyone will ever emulate the service he has given."

Mr Atkinson, who lives on Pump Lane in Garton-on-the-Wolds, has served as a churchwarden at the Church of St Michael and All Angels for 58 years and a parish councillor for more than 60 years.

The list of organisations which nonagenarian Mr Atkinson has been involved with is impressive.

Among his agricultural achievements are a period presiding over the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers, which he has also chaired.

He has worked as the secretary for Driffield Show and has been its president.

He has sat on the Ministry of Agriculture's Committee of Valuations in England and Wales and has written a book on agricultural history. Mr Atkinson has also served as chair of the Horace Taylor Trust.

Mr Wilson added: "He's a wonderful man - for the village and due to the number of organisations he's supported and given his service to in this community. He's lived here more than 60 years and is respected by many."

Mr Wilson said that Mr Atkinson still sees it as his duty to visit the elderly residents of the village - even though he is one of the oldest people living in Garton.

"He still looks on himself that he ought to visit the older people of the village - he's a friend to everyone and people think a lot of him."

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