Winner of this year's prestigious Sir Bryner Jones Memorial Award, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society's highest honour, is Brian Davies, Garthbrengy, Brecknock.
Presented annually, the award recognises individuals who have reached the highest level of achievement within a chosen sector of the agricultural industry.
This year's award celebrated an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the success of a local or regional agricultural show in Wales.
Mr Davies has dedicated 59 years of service to Brecknock Agricultural Society, helping to sustain one of the UK's oldest agricultural shows.
A former chairman, vice chairman and president, he has played a pivotal role in encouraging young people and local families to become involved, helping to secure the long-term future of Brecon County Show.
Judges Mr Harry Fetherstonhaugh OBE and Mrs Susan Jones said:
“We unanimously agree that the winner exemplifies the very highest standards of leadership, commitment and dedication, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit the show for years to come. A truly deserving recipient of this award.
“Brian's contribution ensures Brecon County Show remains relevant, inclusive and capable of evolving in a changing world and changing agricultural landscape.
“His understanding of how the event works, together with his unwavering commitment to its volunteers and his ability to inspire the next generation is most impressive and will help ensure the long-term future of the show.”
Mr Davies received the honour at the Royal Welsh Show Awards Ceremony yesterday. Gareth Roberts, a member of the RWAS Board of Directors, sponsored the winner's medal.
The other shortlisted finalists were Edward Morris, Pembrokeshire and Enid Williams, Anglesey.
The award commemorates Sir Bryner Jones, one of the most influential figures in the history of Welsh agriculture and the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. He helped shape the direction of the RWAS for more than 50 years, serving as honorary show director from 1908-'10, chairman of council from 1944-'53 and president in the society's 50th year in 1954.
Sir Bryner was head of the department of agriculture at Aberystwyth College and became one of Wales' leading agricultural education figures. He later served as commissioner and chairman of the Agricultural Council for Wales before becoming Welsh Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.
Knighted in 1947, his legacy continues through an award first presented in 1957.
