10-01-2019, 08:04 PM
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Outdated ? Really ?
Model defends 'harmless' role at agricultural show http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46820660A model has brushed off criticism that her appearance at an agricultural machinery show was "outdated".
At the Lamma show in Birmingham, agricultural firm Agrifac encouraged visitors to get selfies with glamorous trade show models at their stand.
One of the women, Melissa Sharp, said she had a "great time" - adding that her role at the event was "harmless".
However some objected, including estate manager David Hill, who told the BBC it felt "like a backward step".
Speaking to Radio 4's Farming Today Mr Hill, who was not at the event, said: "A lot of women are wanting to be recognised for their contribution to the industry and want to be taken seriously in a previously male-dominated industry."
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During the exhibition Agrifac tweeted pictures of the women posing in front of agricultural machinery and with competition winners.
Karen Carter chaired her local Young Farmers club in Devon and is a volunteer for the Farming Community Network. She said she was "disappointed" when she saw the images from the show.
"It is 2019 - it is frustrating we are still having these conversations.
"I have nothing against the girls. The point is this sort of practice is outdated," she said.
Carol Lishman, director of the agricultural manufacturers Martin Lishman, tweeted: "Embarrassing photo and not great for encouraging women in this industry, disappointing this is still happening."
Kate Lord, a farm park manager from Gloucestershire, said it was "an insult to women" who work in the industry.
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