Michael Boothroyd

He was born the son of a Yorkshire farmer from the Vale of York and spent his formative years at Little Ouseburn, near Boroughbridge.

He was educated at both Leeds and Cambridge universities and rather than return to the family farm embarked upon a career in agricultural education.

He lectured at Nottinghamshire, Newton Rigg, in Penrith, and Northumberland agricultural colleges before returning to Newton Rigg as vice principal in 1966. He went on to become principal of the college in 1978, a position which he held until his retirement in 1990.

Mr Boothroyd, who was known as Michael, was an educational innovator who started a number of new courses and training schemes while he was at Newton Rigg, including agricultural proficiency tests, college open days, new diploma courses in hill and upland farming, as well as in land use and recreation.

He also took a great interest in the wider rural community of Cumbria and was an active member and secretary of a number of societies, including the Cumbria Grassland Society, and the Cumbria Society. He was also chairman of the Bishop's Council for Agriculture and Rural Life.

In 1991 Mr Boothroyd was awarded the prestigious Blamire Medal awarded annually for services to agriculture in Cumbria.

On his retirement he continued to support young people in Cumbria through his role as mentor and area co-ordinator for the Prince's Trust, a position which he held for 15 years.

His other great passions were music, fine art and history. He was also well known as a local organist, playing regularly at Penrith Methodist Church.

Mr Boothroyd, who never married, is survived by his three nephews, a niece and two great nephews.