A LEADING New Forest figure has paid tribute to the area's head agister, who is retiring later this month after more than 40 years.

Official Verderer Oliver Crosthwaite Eyre was full of praise for the way Brian Ingram has served the commoning community since the late 1950s.

Mr Crosthwaite Eyre told the Court of Verderers: "Brian has been an agister for no less than 44 years, which is an incredible achievement.

"During those decades he has been out in all weathers, covering many thousands of miles in the saddle, behind the wheel or on foot.

"The knowledge and experience he has gathered of this beautiful but challenging place is immeasurable.

"His years as head agister in particular have earned him the respect and affection of those who know him and have worked with him."

Mike Eccles of the Commoners' Defence Association (CDA) also praised Mr Ingram, pictured.