ONE of the very few farmers who can genuinely be described as a legend in his own lifetime, Albert Cook, is the 2010 President of Devon County Agricultural Association.

Mr Cook, of West Heddon farm, Filleigh, near South Molton, celebrated his 85th birthday in December and has been associated with the Devon County Show, over which he will preside in May, for more than 60 years.

He has been a council member since 1948 and has been competing in the livestock classes with his Devon Closewool sheep since 1952, winning 16 breed championships and four inter-breed championships.

He said he was surprised and deeply honoured to have been asked to serve as president: 'I'm just an ordinary North Devon farmer, and the Devon County Show has been  part of my life.  I have had wonderful times showing sheep there, and I am pleased to have been able to help out as a steward over very many years, but I never looked for or expected anything like this.  It's a great honour.'

Outgoing president Sir John Cave said he was delighted to be handing over the reins to such a popular and experienced successor.

'The words that come to mind when you think of Albert Cook are respect and affection, for he commands both in equal measure. With his love of farming, his care for his animals and his commitment to his community, he epitomises everything that is best about Devon farming and the Devon County Show. I know he will make a superb president.' 

Mr Cook attended his first Devon County Show when it came to Pilton, near Barnstaple, in the 1930s. He became actively involved in the 1940s through his work with the Devon Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs. 

He served for many years as a member of North Devon District Council and was its chairman in 1999/2000.  He is also a former member of Devon County Council and served as chairman of the South Molton Magistrates' bench.

Mr Cook's other great enthusiasm is cricket. His great nephew is Alastair Cook, the England opening batsman who has just been named as captain of the England side for the forthcoming tour of Bangladesh.