An Olympic medallist will help ensure the standard of showjumping is higher than ever at future Great Yorkshire Shows.

The Show, the north’s leading agricultural event, will take place in Harrogate in 2007 from Tuesday 10 – Thursday 12 July.

Showjumping has always been a major feature, attracting top-class entries from across the country. Now, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society has formed a special committee to focus on raising its profile still further. A key member will be Yorkshireman, Graham Fletcher, a world-class international showjumper who has been involved in the sport at the highest level for more than 30 years.

Bill Cowling, Honorary Show Director said: ”We are delighted that Graham has agreed to come on board – he has an outstanding reputation and we’re looking forward to the experience and expertise he will bring. The Great Yorkshire Show is renowned for its equestrian excellence, and Graham’s involvement will help us create even more challenging and dynamic show jumping classes.”

Graham, who represented Great Britain at the Olympics on three occasions and won a silver medal, has a long and successful history with the Great Yorkshire Show, winning the prestigious Cock o’ the North championship four times.

Now based in Faringdon, Oxfordshire, he breeds and sells showjumpers and eventing horses with his wife, Tina. His former home is at Carlton Miniott, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire, and he still owns land in the area.

Graham said he was looking forward to getting to grips with his new role: “The Great Yorkshire has always been one of my favourite shows, not just in this country but in the world,” he said. “It’s a show which is so loved, and I want to try and make sure it stays that way for the next generation.”

He added that plans were already in the pipeline for drawing even more interest to the showjumping classes: “It’s pure theatre and hugely popular, but there is a feeling that there could be more on the first and second days of the Show so the emphasis isn’t all on the last day,” explained Graham.

“It’s very exciting to be involved with the new committee, and I’m looking forward to playing a part in ensuring showjumping remains a favourite feature for visitors to the Great Yorkshire Show.”

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