New Appointments to County Show Board of Management

Appointed at Dorchester Agricultural Society’s AGM in August, Paul Dunlop and Ben Best join the Society’s Board of Management each bringing with them specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the management of the Society.

Paul Dunlop is Managing Partner and Head of the Agriculture & Estates Sector of Law Firm Blanchards Bailey Solicitors. The firm advises farmers and landowners on all areas of the law, with Paul specialising in agriculture.

Paul and the firm have supported the Dorset County Show for many years, sponsoring livestock classes and the stockman’s supper as well as having a stand alongside the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

Paul said “We had arranged to have our own stand last year and were, like most, bitterly disappointed that this iconic show could not go ahead due to Covid-19”. Paul went on to say “We are passionate about providing legal advice to the agricultural sector, with many of our staff farming or being involved with farming. I am delighted to have been voted onto the board. I look forward to working with the Show Team and the other board members”.

Ben Best covers South Dorset as Area Sales Manager for C&O Tractors, the dealership sells Massey Ferguson tractors as well as a wide range of industry-leading farm implements and machinery. Ben spends his days interacting with farmers and landowners throughout the county.

“I am humbled to have been voted on to the Board of Management. Dorset County Show has always had a special place in my heart with fond memories including Homecraft entries as a child, showing sheep with my family but most importantly helping deliver livestock with my father and late grandfather with their livestock lorries.

Ben was an active member of Wareham & Purbeck YFC serving as Treasurer and Chairman before progressing to County YFC Chairman in 2016.

“For me the show is a great chance to catch up with client’s past and present to see how the harvest has fared. I look forward to upholding the standards of the Society and using my expertise wherever possible.”

Ben and Paul join a nine-strong Board of Trustees chaired by Head Teacher and Farmer Nicola Ralph. The Trustees guide and steer the Agricultural Society to achieve their charitable objective - the promotion of excellence in agriculture.