A trainee auctioneer has gained top marks by completing his first year of a flagship course, and has been awarded a golden gavel.

Harvey Pile from Dunkeswell, Devon, was awarded the prestigious accolade by the Dick Harrison Trust,after completing his first year on the Livestock Market Operations and Management Course.

The course, ran by Harper Adams University, aims to provide basic knowledge and skills needed by anybody aspiring to be competent in livestock auction practice.

Completion of the course can lead to fellowship of the Livestock Auctioneering Association, and Harvey is keen to further his knowledge and skills.

Harvey said: "The course offers the chance to meet other young professionals in the industry and I have thoroughly enjoyed the first year.

"I've found it very beneficial to me in understanding the influences on how a livestock market business works, survives and thrives and I hope during my career I will be able to implement a lot of the knowledge I am set to gain.

Chris Clapham, livestock & on site sales head at Stags, said: "Harvey has shown great promise in the Rostrum so far and the course has really help to focus and broaden his knowledge and I'm sure with his evident work ethic Harvey has a bright future within the industry."