Mrs. Sarah Jane Trueman Master 2016–2017
Sarah Jane Trueman is the first lady Master of the Company, she was educated at St. Andrews School, Malton, and after her O Levels she went to Thomas Danby College Leeds, to study Meat Technology.
She was one of only two girls on the course which lasted for three years, she became a graduate of the Institute of Meat and went on to gain her meat inspectors certificate.
Her first job on leaving college was at Dalepak Foods, Leeming Bar, where she was a quality control supervisor.
Sarah Jane went to work for her father, Past Master Ray Ballard, at the family business Johnsons of Thirsk in 1996 and took over the business on Ray’s retirement in 2000.
Johnsons Butchers is a traditional family butchery business which includes a wholesale bakery and outside catering business. It employs six members of staff.
In 2005, Sarah-Jane and Past Master Andrew Trueman were married at Swinton Castle, Masham. They have two children, Sam and Sophie. Sam has become a Gild member, being sworn in within ten minutes of Andrew becoming Master.
Sam is currently studying for his Master’s Degree at Birmingham University and Sophie is studying for her A Levels.
Sarah Jane is a past president of Northallerton & District Butchers Association & Past President of the Northern Council of Butchers.
Sarah Jane is a member of Thirsk Rotary Club where she was president in 2013.
In her other spare time, she enjoys gardening, including growing fruit & vegetables, photography, reading and walking her Westie Tara.