FOR the first time in the history of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, the wife of a former president is following in her husband’s footsteps.

Sarah York, of Long Marston, near York, took over the staff of office in a ceremony at the close of last week’s Great Yorkshire Show. It is 25 years since her husband, Edward, was president, from July 1989 to 1990.

During her year of office, Mrs York will represent the society at events both at the 250-acre showground and around the region, preside at meetings, as well as providing guidance and support to the board of trustees.

She is looking forward to her 12-month role, having been involved with the society for more than 40 years.

A keen horsewoman, Mrs York competed at the event as a child. She has been a member of the equine committee since the 1970s and a steward for many years.

Mrs York, who breeds thoroughbred horses, is president of Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain and a former steward of the British Horseracing Authority. Her year of office will be particularly significant as work begins on creating a £10m exhibition hall on the site, replacing the former outdated building.

“I am very much looking forward to my new role, it is a great honour to be asked and of course I accompanied my husband on many of his engagements during his year of office, and now he will be accompanying me,” she said.

Year round the Yorkshire Agricultural Society has an active programme of support for rural life and organisations across the North of England, and also runs Fodder, the award-winning shop and café at the showground.