The new Lady Patroness of the Cheshire Agricultural Society has praised staff and volunteers of the Cheshire County Show ahead of its 175th anniversary year.
Christine Newton, from Marton, near Whitegate, said the hard work of volunteers and staff lie at the heart of the event – which takes place on June 18th and 19th – having played a part in the show for more than 20 years.
"I have been involved in the show for so long and have watched it evolve and go through so many changes to become the fantastic event that it is now, with the focus on agriculture and rural life stronger than ever,” said Christine.
"Credit must go to the volunteers and staff, I know from experience how much work goes into the event and that it couldn’t be done without them.”
Christine’s involvement with the show started more than 20 years ago as volunteer steward when David Broster was the show secretary.
Just a few years later Christine became assistant secretary, a role which she held until her retirement in 2006.
Since then, Christine, 70, has returned to the show every year as a volunteer steward, alongside her husband Alan, 71, who is Chief Steward of the trade stand judging section.
"I was absolutely amazed when I was asked to be patroness; it really is such an honour to be able to carry out that duty and I’m really looking forward to it,” Christine added.
"When you are involved in stewarding or in the office, you are so busy looking after other people you don’t get to see much of the show so I’m looking forward to taking it all in and speaking to as many people as I can.”
This year’s show sees Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, visit the Tabley showground on Wednesday, June 19th for the second day of the event, in her new role as President of the Cheshire Show.
Christine added: "It is going to be a fantastic year with the Royal visit; all we need to do now is keep our fingers crossed for the weather.”
Follow the Cheshire Show on Twitter at @cheshireshow or facebook.com/cheshirecountyshow.
The new Lady Patroness of the Cheshire Agricultural Society has praised staff and volunteers of the Cheshire County Show ahead of its 175th anniversary year.
