A model has defended her 'harmless' appearance at an agricultural machinery show despite critics saying it was 'outdated'.
Machinery firm Agrifac encouraged visitors at this week's Lamma show to take photos with two female models.
The company used social media to share images of the women posing with competition winners.
But some have fired back at the use of models to entice visitors to their stand, comparing it to when Formula 1 used 'grid girls'.
One Twitter user said: "Embarrassing photo and not great for encouraging women in this industry, disappointing this is still happening."
Another said: "As a female farmer, made me wince in 2019 that ridiculous cheap hooker outfits/white boots are needed to 'showcase' anything serious. 40 years ago it was just the norm."
Come and see the girls @lammashow today and tomorrow in Hall 9!! Don’t forget to tag us in any selfies with them #Lamma19 pic.twitter.com/ahGQIUhJRN
— Agrifac UK (@AgrifacUKLtd) January 8, 2019
Agrifac AiCPlus technology scoops Silver future innovation award at @lammashow 2019. Here, Steven Koop accepts the award. #Lamma19 pic.twitter.com/yX83UT1DH8
— Agrifac UK (@AgrifacUKLtd) January 8, 2019
However, one of the models, Melissa Sharp, defended her presence at the show and said she had a 'great time' and that it was 'harmless'.
She said she was there to "promote the brand and to engage with customers as anyone does at a normal job".
"People referring to us as blonde Barbie bombshells with no brain cells is disgusting," she said on Twitter.
Some users on social media agreed.
Absolutely brilliant, strong women showing that they are comfortable not conforming to the views of the politically sensitised..... Good work I hope you continue, and I hope you are rewarded well. It is your choice and you choice alone as to the work you do.. we need more of you!
— Spencer Lee (@SpencerMLee) January 10, 2019
Congratulations @AgrifacUKLtd - celebrate well! All PR is good PR and we think that beautiful ladies are just that. Why does everyone have to jump on this feminist bandwagon. They seemed to enjoy their time @lammashow - doesn’t look forced!
— JunglePR.com (@JunglePR) January 10, 2019
The two women work for promotions company Fan Xperience, who said the pair are 'professionals'
Managing Director Zoe Rutherford told the BBC: "These women are professionals who did a really good job and got a positive reaction from the people who were there.
"The negativity from people, many of whom weren't at the event, has been really unfortunate."
