A COUNCILLOR has been named the new president of the Melplash Agricultural Society.

Rebecca Knox has taken over from Richard Campbell, who stepped down after his year as president as the society's annual general meeting.

The new president grew up at Pilsdon Pen, overlooking the Marshwood Vale in west Dorset. Mrs Knox has years of experience working in the local community. She is a councillor representing the Beaminster area on Dorset County Council and is also a governor at two schools in Beaminster.

Mrs Knox said: "I am thrilled to become president of the society and to have the opportunity to help spread the word.

"Countryside is at the core of our community, a thriving natural environment providing the everyday needs of us all - locally produced food, healthy and happy livestock with the welfare of all at its heart."

Last year, Mrs Knox played a major part in Dorset County Council opening a classroom for the Melplash Agricultural Society’s discover farming project.

The classroom is now based at Washingpool Farm near Dottery, and is available for local schools to use to learn about farming and where their food comes from.

"The Melplash Agricultural Society, and in particular the Melplash Show, celebrates all that is good about rural life in west Dorset," added Mrs Knox.

"It gives farmers and food producers a platform for showcasing their skills and expertise and allows us, the general public, the chance to enjoy and gain an understanding of what farming is about and how it continually evolves to meet our needs and that of the economy. I can’t wait to be part of it.”

Will Frost has been named as the new chairman of the society, taking over from Brigadier John Dean - who Mr Frost has been working alongside for the last two years as vice chairman.

Mr Frost farms with his father Tim, and manages Forde Grange Goat Dairy at Thorncombe.

They now have 2,500 milking goats. Using the latest rotary milking machine, all the goats can be milked by two people in just under three hours.

Mr Frost said: "I intend to carry on the good work that John has championed during his time as chairman.

"He has namely increased the membership of the society and encouraged more young people to attend the show and take part in all the wonderful activities and experiences it has to offer."