Royal Welsh Show : A Showcase of Rural Wales

The Royal Welsh Show was a resounding success for CLA Cymru, showcasing our dedication to the rural economy through a series of engaging events, insightful discussions, and valuable interactions with members and stakeholders. Over four days, our pavilion became a vibrant centre of activity, highlighting the best of Welsh agriculture, sustainability, and community spirit.

The show began with a significant political focus, starting with the new Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, attending her first rural event. CLA Cymru hosted a roundtable on her behalf, with key sector leaders, including the presidents of NFU Cymru and FUW, where discussions centred on the future of Welsh farming.

Our team's presence at the Westminster breakfast was another highlight. Again engaging with Jo Stevens and Dame Nia Griffiths (Parliamentary Under Secretary for Wale), alongside leaders of Openreach; where discussions covered rural connectivity, emphasising the need for better infrastructure to support rural communities.

Senedd engagement was equally robust. We attended the First Minister’s Lunch and discussed with Vaughan Gething and Huw Irranca-Davies the Welsh Governments commitment to the rural economy and a workable SFS. As political announcements were made at the time, we also took the opportunity to engage with Baroness Eluned Morgan, the new First Minister; alongside Jayne Bryant the new Housing and Planning Minister.

On Tuesday, Sam Kurtz MS hosted a dynamic presentation on our Rural Growth Plan, to Members and leaders from all parties in the Senedd and senior stakeholders. The positive response to the plan and 2 hour Q&A demonstrated its uniqueness and importance for driving economic development in rural Wales. Planning was a key theme of the discussions.

Water management emerged as a key theme throughout the show. Director Victoria Bond participated in the River Summit Panel alongside Huw Irranca-Davies, focusing on sustainable water practices crucial for the rural economy. The discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy river ecosystems and sustainable water usage in farming. This is a topic that we are continually reviewing as part of our policy and advice planning as part of our Water Wise program.

Planning was another hot topic with ITV's Hamish Auskerry conducting a follow-up interview with Victoria Bond about permitted development rights, 'Clarksons Clause' and the economic affect in Wales. The segment, aired during the show, also featured member James Owens' farm and ‘Ralph’s Cider’ business.

The wool industry also featured. We introduced Secretary Stevens to key players in the sector, including member British Wool and the Welsh Wool Alliance. Master Shearer Bronwyn Tango’s demonstration in the shearing shed, provided an insight into the skill and tradition involved in wool production, and the resurgence of blade shearing, reinforcing the industry's significance alongside current issues.

Our events at the Royal Welsh Show were designed to showcase innovation and sustainable practices within the rural sector. The CLA Breakfast, sponsored by Carter Jonas and hosted by Hugh Martineau, featured a knowledgeable panel discussing Sustainable Finance Initiatives and Natural Capital. They included Susan Twinning from the CLA, Bruce Howard from sponsors EKN, and Eifiona Williams from Welsh Government.

The CONFOR breakfast on forestry and trees was attended by key players from across the sector, as well as Welsh Government, NRW and the NFU President and Deputy. The session, focusing on rural land use and the future of trees, highlighted the critical role of forestry in sustainable land management. Experts discussed the benefits of woodland for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and the rural economy, emphasising the need for balanced land use policies that support both farming and forestry.

We hosted a Welsh food and drink cluster with the Trade Commissioner and Consul General for Australasia, alongside the heads of DBT in Westminster and Wales, exploring export opportunities for Welsh produce. This event underscored the global potential of Welsh agriculture and the importance of expanding international markets alongside the wealth of talent and taste we have locally. We have arranged to have a Melbourne showcase and welcome food and drink members who are keen to become engage further in these opportunities to the 129 international markets.

Community engagement was a cornerstone of our presence at the show. The Members Evening was a standout event, featuring a performance by the Glynneath Choir that captivated the audience. Supported by sponsors like Carter Jonas and CXCS, the evening also included fundraising for the DPJ Foundation, supporting mental health on farms.

Throughout the show, our pavilion was a welcoming space for members to drop in for refreshments and discussions with advisors and partners. Events such as the ‘Next Gen’ Drinks Reception hosted by Vice President Joe Evans and the CLA Women’s Network 'Sundowner Drinks' hosted by President Victoria Vyvyan, both provided valuable networking opportunities; fostering connections among the next generation of rural leaders and celebrating women in business.

Our presence at the show and others across Wales over the Summer months, highlight the importance of political dialogue, sustainable practices, and fostering a strong sense of community among our members. Be sure to check our events page for details.

The CLA team of advisors are always on hand to help and have a chat and this year we had specialists on tax, planning, farming and natural capital on hand, as well as our Insurance and Health partners.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, particularly headline sponsor Carter Jonas, Brewin Dolphin, CXCS, Velcourt, Wales Perfumery and Eco Systems Knowledge Network for making our events possible.

For more information and to get involved, please contact CLA Cymru at wales@cla.org.uk.