New manager has hi-tech ambitions for Highland Show

Rebecca Elvin, 42, has been appointed manager of the show, which attracts more than 160,000 visitors annually, by the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland.

The keen horse rider, who joins from the Royal County of Berkshire Show, said she was eager to “embrace technology” by adding concepts to the show such as online ticketing.

She said: “It’s a big show and a major event in Scotland and Edinburgh. I’m looking forward to looking at some additions to bring to it in later years.

“I’m looking forward to working with a really experienced team.

“There’s new technology that needs embracing, like electronic ticketing, making it easier for the customer to buy their ticket and come to the show. It was a big success at the other show and I’m sure it would be here.”

The Leeds University graduate, who has worked within the press team of international equestrian events such as Badminton and the Royal Windsor Horse Show, is replacing David Dunsmuir, who retires in March after 15 years.

She spent a memorable summer as a “gamesmaker” volunteer for the London 2012 equestrian events and said she was excited to bringing her experience to the new role.

She said: “It’s really proud of its strong agricultural roots and rightly so. I already run a big agricultural show so I am aware of their importance in the agricultural world.

“We have a big horse section, livestock section and probably the Highland livestock is most important to Edinburgh and Scotland. It’s a very different scale.

“I love the outdoor events world and feel honoured to become part of it here.”

The show, which takes place in June near Edinburgh airport, attracts top livestock exhibitors from across the  UK.

RHASS’ chief executive Stephen Hutt said: “Rebecca impressed us with her knowledge of the industry as well as her proven track record in implementing new initiatives which we believe could benefit the show.

“She joins the show at an time of increased investment in the showground and we very much look forward to her contribution in maintaining our position as Scotland’s best outdoor event and the UK’s best agricultural show.”