A Cumbrian auctioneer has been recognised with a national award.

David Thomlinson, of Harrison & Hetherington in Carlisle, was given the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Marts the Heart awards, part of the British Farming Awards.

At an awards ceremony on Thursday night, David was recognised as "a dedicated and passionate individual who has worked in the auctioneering industry for more than 50 years".

The audience heard how David has played a vital role in the market system and is recognised as an inspirational role model. He puts the needs of farmers first.

The judges said: "[He is] a deserving winner who has influenced the lives of others, supported communities, pushed for change and contributed to the positive promotion of the agricultural industry as a whole."

Collecting his award, David said: "I've been in the job for more than 50 years, and to get recognition for what you've done is really humbling.

"It means a lot to the industry as well, because people are still looking at marts and saying this is a great way of moving livestock."

Other Cumbrian winners at the British Farming Awards included:

*Machinery Innovator of the Year. Gold: Frank Morphet, Swing Over Feed Cover.

*Diversification Innovator of the Year (small to medium). Silver: The Taylor family, Low Howgill Deli and Butchers.