Nearly three decades of dedication and hard work at Blicking Hall are being forever remembered after the estate renamed its longest walk.

It is being called 'Brady's Walk' after the former head ranger, Dave Brady, to honour his achievements and work done over the years.

Mr Brady has looked after the 4,500-acre estate for 26 years and last Thursday hung his boots up for the last time.

He has worked to conserve the historic landscape, the diverse wildlife and restoration of the River Bure for which they won the Wild Trout Trust and Orvis Conservation awards.

Along with the walk, Mr Brady also received a reproduction of the Corbridge map in a handcrafted wooden frame. Speaking about his gifts, he said:

'It is such a big compliment, you never feel like you deserve it!'

Mr Brady believes that one of his most rewarding times was when working with a group of young pupils who were soon to be expelled from school.

He said: 'I found that working with them on the estate and teaching them basic skills helped them to think differently and to feel like they had some value. This was hugely rewarding for me.'

After the success of working with the pupils, he went on to be recognised as a vocational ambassador working with schools.

Mr Brady added that he has always seen how Blickling's parkland, house and gardens fit together as one estate and is passionate that this holistic view of Blickling continues.

He said: 'If I could leave a legacy, it would be for Blickling to keep moving forward and thinking as one estate.'

Helen Bailey, general manager, said: 'His incredible knowledge and dedication will be missed by everyone here at Blickling.

'Renaming the estate walk is the perfect way to honour and thank Dave for everything he has done.'

During his retirement he is planning on travelling with his wife Christine.

He said: 'We aren't going to plan or book anywhere, just head out on our vintage motorbikes and travel wherever the road takes us. Total freedom!'

Do you know of someone who has served their employer with distinction for many years. Email newsdesk@archant.co.uk