A FORMER student has returned to his alma mater as farm manager.

Josh Banks, 30, gained his degree in agriculture and land management from Askham Bryan College, York, four years ago.

He is now hard at work on the other side of the fence as manager of its three farms, which extend to more than 600 hectares of cropping land, including forage.

Following his graduation, he gained a wealth of experience across the industry, particularly in the livestock sector which is his particular interest.

The college specialises in land-based courses up to degree level with classroom learning enhanced by students' practical experience on the farms.

Askham Bryan has a rapid exit milking parlour for 240 milking cows plus followers, about 300 breeding ewes, wheat, barley, oilseed rape and forage crops such as maize.

His role also involves supporting student learning as well as assisting with visits by the public, including on Sunday, March 19, when about 5,000 visitors are expected for Lambing Sunday.

Mr Banks, whose home is near Ripon, said: "I'm delighted to be back at Askham Bryan. During my three years there as a student, I thoroughly enjoyed my learning experience including being President of the Students' Union. My degree gave me the ability to progress quickly through the industry, culminating in my recent appointment as the college's farm manager."

His parents are not involved in farming, but his interest was initially sparked through helping on his grandfather's farm in the Lake District.