Rachel Coates Is the Great Yorkshire Show’s First Woman Director
The first woman to ever hold the position of show director has been confirmed by The Great Yorkshire Show.
Former show director Charles Mills will be succeeded by Rachel Coates, a dairy farmer from Shipley. Mills had been in the role since 2016.
Following this year's 165th performance, which concludes on July 12, the transfer will occur without delay.
Rachel said: "I am honoured to be taking over the reins as show director from Charles who has done an amazing job over the last eight years.
"I have been coming to the show since I was 18 which is when I got the bug for it. My aim will be to promote the show to the younger generations so that it continues to flourish and grow."
Mills said, "I can’t think of a better candidate to hand over the reins to and I know Rachel will take the show from strength to strength."
Allister Nixon, CEO of Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said: "I am absolutely delighted that following a rigorous interview and selection process, Rachel has been appointed to the role of show director. We wish her every success with her role and look forward to working with her to deliver future Great Yorkshire Shows."
Rachel juggles dairy farming with her involvement in the women in farming network of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, where she finds satisfaction working at the Great Yorkshire Showground for the society's countryside days for schoolchildren.