Female director of ice cream manufacturer inspires at conference

The director of an award-winning York ice-cream manufacturer was one of five women in agriculture who told their inspiring stories at a recent farming conference.

Lesley Buxton, director of Acaster Malbis based Yorvale, spoke at the ‘Women in Farming - Stepping Stones to Success' event which took place at the Pavilions of Harrogate, Great Yorkshire Showground, on September 30.

The conference provided an occasion for the female speakers to share their experiences of becoming involved in the wider farming industry and the challenges of developing their business ideas.

Mrs Buxton said: "It was a pleasure to speak at this event and for women to be recognised for their key roles in business strategy and decision making in the farming industry.

"I'm sure I will not be alone in saying the other women's stories were an inspiration and will hopefully influence a larger number of women to take on more pivotal roles in the future of farming businesses."

The flagship event was organised by the Yorkshire Rural Support Network and supported by The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, the Barclays Agriculture Team and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI).

Other speakers at the event included Tamara Hall, MD 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; Carol Peacock of Parlour Made Cheeses, Country Durham; and Janet Oldroyd Hulme, a rhubarb grower from Carlton near Wakefield.

It was hoped the free event would inspire women considering a new venture, as well as those already involved in a farming business of enterprise, said Sally Conner, RABI's regional manager for the North East.

Having celebrated their 25th anniversary in business this year, Yorvale was proud to be awarded the Taste of Excellence Award in Dairy for its Panna Cotta and Apricot ice cream at the annual Cream Awards.

Ends

For more information or to arrange an interview with Ian or Lesley Buxton, please contact Tracey Baty at three60 marketing on

Direct line: 01430 871360

Mobile: 07971 961574

E mail:traceybaty@three60 marketing.co.uk

Web:www.three60marketing.co.uk

Notes to editors

For more information about Yorvale, please call 01904 706702 or visitwww.yorvale.co.uk

The business stocks farm shops, visitor attractions, independent retailers and supermarkets throughout Yorkshire and are also available nationwide via selected wholesalers.

Yorvale's unique selling points include stress free cows, the use of only natural flavours and colours and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.

For more information about Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), please visithttp://www.rabi.org.uk/.