Etwall 'care farmer' honoured with MBE

A Derbyshire farmer has been recognised in the New Year Honours list for his work helping troubled youngsters.

Roger Hosking provides employment and practical training at Highfields Happy Hens at Etwall.

The farm has been recognised by organisations including the Youth Offending Service for helping young people who have had difficult lives.

Mr Hosking said he was "shocked and embarrassed" to learn he had been appointed MBE.

Youngsters involved in the project are taught skills such as working with animals, handling money and dealing with customers as a means of boosting their self-respect.

'Angry hands'

Mr Hosking said: "We've always said that our chickens do a more important job than lay eggs.

"A chicken is a very manageable animal and they love being picked up and stroked.

"Eggs need to be collected so angry hands become gentle hands."

Others named in the New Year Honours list include Elizabeth Broomhead, who has become an MBE for voluntary services to netball in Buxton.

Professor Paul Gilbert, a clinical psychologist at Derbyshire Mental Health Services NHS Trust, was appointed OBE for services to healthcare.