Duchess to attend 150th Ryedale Show

The Duchess of Kent will attend the 150th Ryedale Show at Welburn Park, Kirkbymoorside, next month, the show’s organisers have announced.

Although the Duchess officially retired from carrying out Royal visits some time ago in order to spend more time teaching music to children, she is keen to attend show on Tuesday, July 26, the show team said.

Christine Thompson, Ryedale Show’s general secretary, said: “As most local people are aware, the Duchess of Kent was born and brought up at nearby Hovingham Hall, and we feel very honoured that she is able to join us.

“She is very excited at the prospect of visiting the show which will evoke many childhood memories.”

Mrs Thompson said the Duchess will be accompanied on the day by her nephew Sir William Worsley, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire.

This year’s Show Presidents are Chris and Sheila Leckenby of Oxclose Farm, Pockley and it will be their role to host the visit.

Mr Leckenby said: “Sheila and I will be delighted to welcome HRH the Duchess of Kent to this year’s show and am sure that the visit will prove to be yet another momentous occasion within the colourful history of both the show and the Ryedale & Pickering Lythe Agricultural Society.

“Alongside the usual competitions and events, all visitors will get a glimpse of how the show has progressed since its conception in 1855 by several means including our special main ring parade of farming through the ages, a memorabilia marquee and a commemorative brochure.”