Show Thanks
10.07.02

Over a hundred guests, representing key supporters of the Royal County of Berkshire Show, attended a dinner in the Long Gallery at Englefield House on Friday 5th July 2002.

Hosted by Richard Benyon, President of Show organisers, the Newbury and District Agricultural Society and Sir William and Lady Benyon, the evening acknowledged the support of individual and corporate sponsors. In his welcome address, Mr Benyon thanked guests for their commitment and loyalty and referred to his family’s proud, long-standing close relationship with the Society and his father, Sir William’s Presidency in 1992.

Sir Christopher Gent, Chief Executive of Vodafone Group plc, responding on behalf of the sponsors, commented on the close relationship between his company and the Society. Sir Christopher said, “The combination of Vodafone as the world’s leading mobile services company from a high technology industry and the Agricultural Society, local to our Headquarters, might seem odd, one representing the very latest and newest industrial developments in our society, the other, the oldest industry known to mankind. Yet there is much that we have in common.

“Of course we both serve society and the mass consumer market, but more than that, our communications services and presence in Newbury, have over the last 17 years of our history, become a part of the very fabric of our society and community, in a similar way to agriculture and farming. Farming, the racehorse training and blood stock industries, the Show and Vodafone, have all become matters for which Newbury is renowned.”

Sir Christopher concluded, “We are delighted that the Show has gone from strength to strength and is now one of the top ten in the Country. It is appropriate in this Jubilee year, that the name has been changed to the Royal County of Berkshire Show.”

Society Chairman Michael Bowden reported on events to date, including the successful Newbury Summer Show, an informative tour of Englefield Estate, the Rogation Sunday service on his own farm, Members’ Summer Party and the many educational initiatives which the Society supports. Looking ahead, Mr Bowden said, “I am particularly looking forward to seeing the cattle, sheep and pigs back in September, which coupled with the thrilling attractions of daring motorcycle displays and a junior version of the Royal Tournament Gun Run, will make a memorable Royal County of Berkshire Show. “

Representatives from other Newbury companies attending the dinner included: Jeremy Willis - Blacket and Turner Group (Newbury Weekly News), Dr Richard Bennett – Chairman, Kerridge Computer Company, Steve Painter – Bayer, Hemant Amin – Charles Lucas & Marshall and Mark Jones – Fawcetts Volvo.

Sponsorship opportunities at the Show and for the Society generally range from supporting attractions, membership communications, a permanent display or a particular class. Further details on sponsorship can be obtained from Alastair Ogilvie (Communication Committee Chairman) who can be contacted through Newbury Showground Tel 01635 247111.

The 2002 Royal County of Berkshire Show will be held on the 21st and 22nd September at Newbury Showground.

For further press information please contact:
Annette Priestley
Comand (UK)
Tel: 01635 248258
e-mail: priestley@comanduk.co.uk