Yorkshire Agricultural Society encourages rural businesses to enter Harrogate Business Awards

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The Society told the Harrogate Advertiser that entering the awards is an important way to shine a light on rural businesses across our area and ensure that the local agricultural economy continues to thrive.

A spokesperson said: "Recognising excellence is fundamental to the work of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society (YAS), where we work to champion and promote farming, food and the countryside.

"YAS is therefore proud to sponsor the Best Rural Business Award, championing excellence in the region’s rural sector.

"There have been some amazing winners of our category previously and it’s important to shine a light on those special businesses, not only to inspire others but also to maintain a vibrant rural economy.

"Here at YAS we are planning our flagship event the Great Yorkshire Show which will this year be held on Tuesday 14 to Thursday 16 July and usually attracts 130,000 visitors.

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"Not only is this an iconic Yorkshire event, it’s also among the biggest in England and attracts some of the finest livestock in the UK as well as showcasing the latest agricultural machinery and innovation.

"YAS also runs its family of businesses on the showground throughout the year including: the Yorkshire Event Centre, Pavilions of Harrogate, Fodder and the Harrogate Caravan Park.

"All profits from these go back to YAS to help promote farming with initiatives like free Countryside Days for 6,000 primary school children, farmer health checks, support and networking groups for the farming community as well as encouraging the development of those working in the industry."

Previous winners of the Best Rural Business category include Wharfe Valley Farm, Minskip Farm Shop and Green Tech.

To enter, visit www.harrogatebusinessawards.co.uk. Entries close at noon on Friday, February 28.