A new chairman has been appointed at the Royal Bath and West of England Society, as the charity, founded in 1777, prepares for the celebration of its 150th show.

Robert Drewett, vice-chairman for the last seven years, and a partner with Osborne Clarke solicitors in Bristol, has taken over the role of chairman from Edwin White.

Mr Drewett’s association with Society goes back 35 years when he started working as a steward at the Royal Bath & West Show. He follows in the footsteps of his father, who also served as chairman of the society.

The society also runs a number of major shows and events throughout the year at its showground near Shepton Mallet, including the Royal Bath & West Show, which will be staged this year from May 29 to June 1.