ASKHAM Bryan College has appointed a woman to a high profile post for the second time this year.

Chantelle Astley has become farm manager at the college just outside York where until now she has combined part-time agricultural lecturing with farming with her husband on land near Selby.

She takes over responsibility for the college's Westfield and Home Farms which have together 280 hectares supporting livestock and arable enterprises.

She said: "I love teaching; I am passionate about British agriculture and am driven by wanting young people to get into farming. Yes there are obstacles and it's hard work but it is so rewarding.

"We need to be the best of the best, a shop window for the industry so we are inspiring students both here and beyond the college gates that British agriculture is amazing, the finest in the world."

In January Catherine Dixon became the college's chief executive.

Both women met the York Central MP Rachael Maskell when she visited the college.

Ms Dixon said: "I was delighted to welcome Ms Maskell to Askham Bryan. It was a great opportunity to showcase our students' learning across a broad range of subjects.

"I was also pleased to introduce her to Chantelle who started with us as a lecturer and brings expertise, innovation and enthusiasm to farm management which I am sure will inspire our students."