The Duchess of Edinburgh will visit the Royal Welsh Show on Tuesday, July 21 for the first time in her capacity as patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO).
Duchess Sophie, who previously attended the Royal Welsh Show in 2003 and the Winter Fair in 2018, has been patron of ASAO, the representative body for the UK’s agricultural, horticultural, equine and countryside events, since 2012. She is a regular supporter of agricultural shows across the country.
Nicola Davies, Royal Welsh Agricultural Society Council chair, said the Royal Welsh Show will be honoured to welcome The Duchess next month.
“It is hugely encouraging that members of the Royal Family continue to take such an active and deep interest in rural matters,” she added.
“This will be an extremely special occasion for us.
“The show is about bringing people together and Her Royal Highness will have the opportunity to meet some of the wonderful people who make the Royal Welsh so special.”
During her visit, Duchess Sophie will tour the showground, meeting exhibitors, young farmers and volunteers and seeing some of the exciting new additions to this year’s show. She is widely recognised for her support of farming, food production and rural communities.
Richard Price, honorary show director, said:
“The Duchess of Edinburgh is hugely knowledgeable about agricultural shows, having visited many events in her role as patron of ASAO, so she is sure to keep us on our toes!
“We will be pulling out all the stops to show her the very best of Welsh agriculture and to ensure she leaves with very fond memories of the Royal Welsh Show and its people.”
This year’s show runs from July 20 to 23 at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. The four-day event is one of the highlights of the agricultural calendar, celebrating livestock and equine competitions, rural skills, food and drink, horticulture, forestry, countryside sports, shopping and entertainment.
Full event details and ticket information are available on the RWAS website https://rwas.wales/ .
