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.

They once played a key role in the governance of the city, maintaining trade standards, training apprentices and marking charitable and religious occasions, including the York Mystery Plays.

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, which was held at the Birds of Prey Centre in Newby Wiske.

Mrs Trueman, who runs Johnson’s Butchers in Thirsk with her husband Andrew, said: “It has been a great honour to be the first female master of the gild and I have had a fantastic and unforgettable year.

“The master for the year always gets to choose a charity to raise money for and I specifically wanted to help a local charity.

“I knew of Herriot Hospice Homecare and all the good work they do in the community, so it was an easy choice; and I am delighted to have raised £600 for them.”

Herriot’s fundraising manager Alexandra Weighell said: “The generosity of people like Sarah-Jane never ceases to amaze us and it all helps to ensure we can continue to provide our services for people with terminal illnesses in Hambleton and Richmondshire.”