A BUTCHER, who was the first female Master of the York Gild of Butchers in its 700-year history, has marked the end of her term with a presentation to a hospice.

Sarah-Jane Trueman, who runs a butchers in Thirsk, is coming to the end of her term as master of the ancient guild, which is one of three in York which can trace its roots back to the 13th century.

Throughout Mrs Trueman’s 12 months in the role, she has been raising money for Herriot Hospice Homecare and recently presented the charity with a cheque for £600. Most of the money was raised at two events, a ladies’ feast and masters’ day out held at the Birds of Prey Centre in Newby Wiske.