THE increasing role of women in farming will be celebrated at a free event at the Great Yorkshire Showground at the end of the month.

"Women in Farming – Stepping stones to success" is at the Pavilions on Tuesday, September 30, from 11am to 2.30pm, and has been organised by the Yorkshire Rural Support Network, supported by The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, Barclays agriculture team, and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI).

Kate Dale, Network coordinator said: “This is an ideal opportunity for women who are already involved in a farming business or additional enterprise, together with those considering a new venture to come along and be inspired.”

Martin Redfearn, Barclays national agricultural policy manager, will open the event with results from the bank’s recent survey which gauged the current role of women within the wider farming industry. Other speakers include Tamara Hall, managing director of Molescroft Grange Farm, Beverley, and a Yorkshire Agricultural Society Nuffield Scholar; Jane Thornber, manager of the award-winning Fodder food shop and café at the Great Yorkshire Showground; Lesley Buxton, director of Yorvale Icecream, Acaster Malbis; Carol Peacock of Parlour Made Cheeses, Mordon, County Durham; and Janet Oldroyd Hulme, rhubarb grower from Carlton, near Wakefield.

John Pinches, Barclay’s Agricultural Area Manager for Yorkshire and the North East, said: "Women now play a key part in decision making, business strategy as well as physical work on the farm and the next few years are definitely an exciting time for women in the farming industry."

There will also be a hamper raffle to raise funds for RABI and a buffet lunch. To register for a free place contact sarah.estensen@barclays.com or call 07917 092131.