How the Yorkshire Agricultural Society is backing Yorkshire farming all year round - Graham Thompson
The mission of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society can be summed up in one simple phrase: to support farming in Yorkshire.
As a charity, the proceeds from all our commercial activities goes back into supporting agriculture, its associated industries and all those who work in them.
Our on-site venues, Fodder – Great Yorkshire Food Hall, Pavilions of Harrogate, the Great Yorkshire Events Centre and Harrogate Caravan Park, all also contribute to our work throughout the year.
I am pleased to report that we’ve had a very busy summer on the event front. In addition to our flagship event, the Great Yorkshire Show, we also hosted two brand new large scale outdoor events, taking advantage of our unique facilities.
Symphonic Ibiza filled the Main Ring with music and dancing in August when DJs, world class vocalists and a full live orchestra combined to create a spectacular evening enjoyed by thousands of visitors.
Then it was on to Mathewsons Live, a festival-style weekend event featuring classic car auctions, rally stage demonstration, live music and family entertainment.
We also took the opportunity to celebrate the 30th birthday of Pavilions of Harrogate with a party for all those who have supported the venue over the years.
There’s also plenty coming up, including the popular Le Creuset Factory to Table Sale which returns from Friday 25 September – Sunday 27 September at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre. There’s also the Harrogate Indoor Funfair from Saturday October 24 to Sunday November 1.
All of the above have helped us to continue our work with the farming community which means we have a full list of agriculture-based events this autumn, starting with our new Agritunity event on Wednesday 7 October.
Aimed at secondary school students, this free careers taster day for schools is organised by our Education team and its content is closely linked to the national curriculum, showcasing cutting-edge STEM applications in agriculture to inspire the ambitions and academic progression of pupils of all abilities.
The next one will be Women in Farming Network Autumn Gathering on Tuesday 13 October when we share the experiences of some inspiring women who have managed to find success tin a range of different agriculture-based roles, from veterinary work to butchery.
Children are again the focus when we host Apple Day on Wednesday 21 October in our own on-site heritage orchard. Led by orchard expert, Alan Thornton from Fruit Works Co-operative, pupils will learn about our selection of Yorkshire trees which includes varieties such Grandpa Buxton, Dog’s Snout and Yorkshire Beauty.
They will have a go at making apple juice with organic apple juice producers, Carr House Farm, who will bring a real apple press and juicing apples from their orchard and make a baked apple to take home and cook for tea.
Our Future Farmers Autumn Debate is set for Thursday 22 October and this year has the theme “Heads Up: Practical Steps for a Safe and Productive Farm.” Delivered alongside the Yorkshire Rural Support Network and sponsored by McClarrons, it will explore the everyday actions that can make a real difference to the safety, wellbeing and efficiency of farm businesses.
Last but not least, we are proud to be supporting the Yorkshire Post Rural Awards which are so important in recognising and rewarding some of the amazing work of businesses and enterprises in our own region.
Graham Thompson is Commercial Director at Yorkshire Agricultural Society.