The handover of annual duties took place at this week's Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society Ltd's AGM.

As outgoing President Richard Cole, of Whitland, handed over the chains of office he described his year at the helm as an unforgettable 12 months.

Now taking centre stage as 2018 Show President is Brian Harries.

Brian is well-known in the county for his charity fundraising, after-dinner speaking and as publican of Haverfordwest's Bristol Trader. His voluntary and charitable work was recognised in last year's New Year Honours list when he was presented with a British Empire Medal.

He will be joined in his duties by his wife, Margaret.

Brian joined the YFC when he was 16. He has been a sponsor of Pembrokeshire County Show for a number of years, but has not been directly involved with the running of the show.

He said it was an honour to be asked to take on the prestigious role and one that he is relishing.

He said: "No-one succeeds as an individual, you need a team to succeed.

"I'm going to roll my sleeves up tomorrow morning and get to work."

He also praised the Society's Chief Executive Jan Pearce saying: "Jan leads from the front, a lady of immense ability and immense influence."

One of Brian's first duties as President was to reveal this year's successful applicant for Lady Ambassador.

Stepping into the role is 27-year-old Marged Simons, of Narberth.

Marged is an active member of Llawhaden YFC and her passion is showing her Welsh Ponies and Cobs where she has had much success.

She said: "The show provides the opportunity to bridge the gap between the town and agricultural industry and I feel that it can be used to educate about farming and allow farmers to showcase their animals and products.

"The work the Society does on an annual basis is fantastic for the local economy, so gaining the support of all Pembrokeshire people albeit in agriculture, business or purely spectators to events is vital for the sustainability of the Society."

The Society's treasurer Nicola Owen, was also announced as President-Elect. She will be supported in her duties by her husband Roger.

The weather for last year's show was described as 'challenging' during the meeting, but following on-going consultations with stakeholders there will be lots of new and exciting plans being revealed for this year's event. There will also be a revised showground layout.

The 2018 show takes place from August 14-16.

PICTURES: Lisa Soar