Devon County Show - Chief Executive to retire from top DCAA job

The Chief Executive of the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA) is retiring next summer after 12 years in the post.

Mervyn Hosking joined the DCAA after a career spanning more than 34 years in corporate banking.

His financial background was put to good use helping to steer the charity back into profitability following its move from Whipton to Westpoint, Exeter.

"The DCAA is in very good financial shape and the future of the Devon County Show is secure providing those involved with it recognise its dependency upon the other events held on the showground through the Westpoint subsidiary company," said Mr Hosking.

Next year Mr Hosking will oversee his 12th Holiday on Ice show and Devon County Show.

He added: "I’m proud that this year will see the DCAA achieve its 8th successive year of substantial profit after many years of loss making."

Mr Hosking paid tribute to the “very dedicated and loyal staff, particularly those who operate at the ‘coalface’” and said he had enjoyed an unmissable experience.

The DCAA is run to promote agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture and forestry in the county through shows including the Devon County Show and competitions.

The post of Secretary and Chief Executive is currently being advertised and a successor will take up the post next summer.

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