Thousands gather at Llanelwedd as Welsh farming, rural heritage and the future of food take the spotlight

THE ROYAL WELSH SHOW has opened at Llanelwedd, with thousands of visitors arriving for four days celebrating Welsh agriculture, food, countryside traditions and rural life.

Major Andrew Butcher MBE, Senior Training Safety Officer at Sennybridge Defence Training Camp, officially declared the 2026 show open during Monday’s traditional ceremony.

He was joined by Royal Welsh Agricultural Society chair of council Nicola Davies, show president Gethin Havard and representatives from farming, government and rural organisations.

First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth was among the senior political figures attending the opening day, underlining the show’s importance not only as a major visitor attraction, but as a focal point for debate about the future of agriculture and food production in Wales.

This year, Brecknock is taking centre stage as the society’s Feature County.

It is the fifth time the county has held the honour, following previous feature years in 1964, 1980, 1997 and 2012.

The opening ceremony recognised the efforts of Mr Havard and his family, county advisory committee chair Rob Powell, honorary secretary Shelley Hughes, ambassador Teleri Haf Thomas and the many volunteers involved in organising events and raising funds throughout the year.

Last month’s Grassland Event at Cwmbrynich, hosted by the Havard family, was among the highlights of Brecknock’s feature year.

A special tribute was also paid to the families of Epynt who were displaced from their homes in 1940 when the land was taken over for use as a military training area.

Addressing the crowd, Major Butcher said agriculture remained central to the Welsh economy, environment, food security and national identity.

He said: “In a rapidly changing world, the importance of agriculture has never been clearer. It is central to our economy, to our environment and to our food security. But beyond all that, it is central to our identity.

“The Royal Welsh Show stands as a powerful reminder of that truth. It showcases excellence, encourages innovation and strengthens the bonds between us.

“It brings town and country together, offering a space where understanding can grow and where traditions can be celebrated and shared.”

The show was officially opened to a fanfare performed by the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh.

Farming policy takes the spotlight

Away from the competitions and entertainment, the political future of Welsh farming has already emerged as one of the central themes of this year’s show.

The Welsh Government used the event to confirm that £340 million a year will be provided for three years to March 2030 to support the Sustainable Farming Scheme.

The package includes £238 million annually for the scheme’s Universal Layer and £102 million for its Optional and Collaborative Layers.

Ministers say the multi-year agreement will end the uncertainty caused by annual funding decisions and allow farmers to plan investments with greater confidence.

A new national Farm to Fork plan is also being unveiled during the show, setting out proposals for the future of food production and the wider food industry in Wales.

New sheep village launched

Among the major additions to the showground this year is Cynefin, a new Welsh Sheep Village created by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society and the National Sheep Association.

The area was opened by Margaret Dalton OBE and Alun Evans CBE, both longstanding champions of the Welsh and UK sheep industry.

The dedicated village celebrates the people, breeds, products and traditions that have shaped sheep farming in Wales, while showcasing innovation and best practice across the sector.

Visitors can take part in educational displays, live demonstrations, discussions and interactive activities designed to improve understanding of the role sheep farming plays in the Welsh landscape, rural economy and national heritage.

Brecknock’s native breeds are also being showcased, including the Beulah Speckled Face, Brecknock Hill Cheviot, Epynt Hardy Speckled Face and Talybont Welsh Mountain.

The name Cynefin reflects the close relationship between the land, livestock, farming families and the communities shaped by the sheep industry.

The popular Horticulture Village has also returned with a packed programme of expert talks, demonstrations and practical activities.

BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost joined the opening day as special guest judge for the Micro Show Garden Competition before taking part in a question-and-answer session with visitors.

Main Ring entertainment

The Main Ring programme began with the Royal Welsh debut of the Shetland Pony Grand National, alongside the return of the Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show, Hawkeye Falconry and displays by the RAF Falcons.

A special performance was also given by Britain’s Got Talent winners the Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir, whose members waved to the crowds from the Main Ring.

The choir has used its growing public profile to raise awareness of loneliness and mental health pressures within farming communities.

Wales YFC also marked its 90th anniversary with a colourful display celebrating the organisation’s contribution to rural life and generations of young farmers.

The Royal Welsh Show continues until Thursday, July 23, with livestock and equine competitions, forestry, horticulture, countryside sports, shopping, Welsh food and drink and a full programme of Main Ring entertainment.

Picture caption: Royal Welsh Agricultural Society president Gethin Havard with Major Andrew Butcher MBE following the opening ceremony.

Picture caption: Members of the Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir wave to the crowds from the Main Ring.

Pictures: RWAS

Prime Minister says £45-a-year reduction will give struggling households “breathing space” this winter

PRIME MINISTER Andy Burnham has announced that VAT will be removed from domestic electricity bills from October 1 as part of his Government’s first major intervention on the cost of living.

The move, unveiled alongside new Chancellor John Healey on Tuesday morning, is expected to reduce the annual Ofgem energy price cap by around £45, provided suppliers pass the full saving on to customers.

It comes less than 24 hours after Mr Burnham entered Downing Street promising immediate action to support households struggling with rising bills and stretched finances.

Mr Burnham said: “Westminster has not been working for people for too long, with families struggling with the cost of living.

“That needs to change. I said I wanted to give people breathing space, and that’s what I’m announcing on my second day as Prime Minister.

“We’re taking immediate action to cut taxes on energy bills, put more money in people’s pockets and bring back hope.”

The Government said the measure would initially be funded by cancelling the planned Digital ID programme.

Mr Healey said: “For too long, too many people have struggled with the cost of living.

“Today’s energy tax cut will give families some breathing room on bills and provide some reassurance this winter.

“This measure is funded this year by cancelling the Digital ID programme. It will help bring down inflation while supporting households in every postcode.”

The announcement represents the first policy move of Mr Burnham’s premiership and comes ahead of the first meeting of his newly appointed Cabinet.

In his first address from Downing Street, Mr Burnham promised the biggest transformation of British politics in four decades, pledging to create what he described as “a new political model and a new economic model” for the country.

He began reshaping the Government on Monday evening, appointing Mr Healey as Chancellor in place of Rachel Reeves.

A number of senior figures from Sir Keir Starmer’s administration also left Government, including former deputy prime minister David Lammy, former attorney general Lord Hermer and former housing secretary Steve Reed.

Their replacements are expected to join Mr Burnham around the Cabinet table on Tuesday as the new administration begins setting out its priorities.

The Prime Minister has also indicated that his Government is considering further measures to ease pressure on household finances, including controls on rents and a cap on bus fares.

Further details on those proposals have yet to be announced.

Direct flights to resorts in Italy, Austria and France will operate through Crystal Ski Holidays

SKIING may be far from most people’s minds as Wales experiences another spell of hot weather, but Cardiff Airport is urging holidaymakers to start planning their winter escapes.

Crystal Ski Holidays is offering direct flights from Cardiff to Turin, Salzburg and Chambéry this winter, providing access to major skiing regions across Italy, Austria and France.

Airport officials say experienced skiers often begin arranging their holidays during the summer, when there is generally a wider choice of resorts, accommodation and departure dates.

Turin provides access to the Italian Alps and resorts including Sestriere and Sauze d’Oulx, while Salzburg serves Austria’s alpine villages and ski areas catering for beginners, families and more experienced visitors.

Flights to Chambéry offer a route into the French Alps, including some of Europe’s largest interconnected ski areas.

Lee Smith, Head of Business Development at Cardiff Airport, said: “The current heatwave might make winter feel a long way off, but now is exactly when many experienced skiers start planning their next trip.

“Booking early gives customers the greatest choice and helps them secure the holiday that’s right for them.

“We’re delighted to be working with Crystal Ski Holidays to offer direct flights from Cardiff to Turin, Salzburg and Chambéry this winter, giving travellers from Wales easy access to some of Europe’s most popular ski destinations.

“It’s a convenient way to start a winter holiday, with great choice available across Italy, Austria and France.”

The programme includes options for families, groups, first-time skiers and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.

Crystal Ski Holidays packages include flights, accommodation, resort transfers and access to holiday representatives.

Scott Britton, Head of Crystal Ski Holidays, said: “Flying from your local airport can make all the difference when planning a ski holiday, and we’re pleased to offer customers in South Wales the convenience of departing from Cardiff.

“Combined with our buy one, get one free lift pass offer that is currently running, holidaymakers can enjoy even greater value on their winter getaway.

“With flights, accommodation, transfers and expert support all included, a Crystal Ski Holiday makes getting to the mountains simple, leaving customers free to focus on enjoying their time on the slopes.”

Winter ski holidays departing from Cardiff Airport are now available to book through Crystal Ski Holidays. Customers should check the terms, availability and eligibility requirements attached to any promotional offers before booking.