Two of Norfolk's best-known farmers have been recognised by the Royal Agricultural Societies for their contribution to the industry over many years.

The awards were presented at a reception at the House of Lords by Lord Plumb, former president of the European Parliament and also past president of the National Farmers' Union.

Lord Plumb, of Coleshill, Warwickshire, presented a Fellowship of the Royal Agricultural Societies to Jim Papworth, who was already an associate.

The citation recognised the great efforts over many years to promote education and better understanding of food and farming by Mr Papworth, of LF Papworth, based at Lodge Farm, Felmingham, near North Walsham.

Mr Papworth and his family have been encouraging children from schools in his local area to visit the farms over many years.

Also, he has been a great supporter of Norfolk's farming charity, the Clan Trust, as well as Aylsham Agricultural Show Association's efforts to promote the farming industry.

Henry Cator, of Broad Farm, Salhouse, was awarded an Associateship of the Royal Agricultural Societies (ARAgS) in recognition of his role in leading the Royal Agricultural Society of England as chairman of trustees.

He was for 11 years chairman of the council of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association. Mr Cator runs a mixed farm of about 200 hectares that includes a pedigree herd of British White cattle.

Beef from the herd is sold through his farm shop at Blofield, east of Norwich. And, over the past seven years, Mr Cator and his team have welcomed hundreds of youngsters from local schools to visit his farm.