SARAH York has made history in becoming president of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

For it is the first time in its history that the wife of a former president has followed in her husband’s footsteps.

Mrs York, of Long Marston, near York, took over the staff of office in a ceremony at the close of this year's Great Yorkshire Show. It is 25 years since her husband, Edward, was president in 1989 – 1990.

During her year of office, she will represent the society at events throughout the region, preside at meetings, and provide guidance and support to the Board of Trustees.

She is very much 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, has been a member of the equine committee since the 1970s and a steward for many years.

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will be particularly significant as work begins on creating a £10m exhibition hall on the site, replacing the former outdated building.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