Royal Welsh Show

The Royal Welsh Show (Welsh: "Sioe Frenhinol Cymru") is the biggest agricultural show in Europe. It is organised by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, and takes place in July of each year, at Llanelwedd, near Builth Wells, in Powys, Mid Wales.

Format

The show lasts for four days and attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually, making it a major boon for tourism in Wales. Events include:
*Judging of cattle, sheep, horses, goats, pigs and various other domestic animals
*Sheep dog trials
*Sheep shearing competitions
*Horse riding competitions
*Four-in-hand and Carriage Driving displays
*Falconry
*Games and sports such as the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery of the Royal Horse Artillery
*Arts and crafts show
*Live music

Given its "Royal" status it is not unusual for a senior member of the British Royal family to attend at the Show. A familiar sight is the Prince of Wales who is generally acknowledged to be a keen supporter of the farming community. Indeed following his outspoken support during the 2001 foot and mouth crisis, some farmers regard him as an influential figure. One farming union, the FUW, nominated him for his outstanding contribution to agriculture in 2003 which was announced at the show.

Prestige

Whilst being a successful exhibitor at any show is a success, victory at the Royal Welsh Show is regarded as particularly significant not only in Wales but throughout the United Kingdom. Exhibitors attend from throughout Wales and beyond and the quality of competition is always high. Of particular prestige is the category of Supreme Champion in the cattle section. Success in this category attracts attention to the exhibitor and cattle breeders will be willing to pay more for the animal's progeny. Despite this financial incentive, the majority of exhibitors will claim they compete for the honour and the camaraderie.

Business

Most major businesses with links to agriculture will have a trade stand at the show. Given the number of farming people at the venue it is regarded as a vital opportunity to attract new business as well as to network with current customers. It is not unusual to see an exhibition trade stand selling Manure spreaders sighted next to a stand selling luxury sports cars.

ocial Event

The Royal Welsh is particularly significant for young people who live in farming communities in Wales. It is regarded as one of the highlights of the year and as an opportunity to socialise with old friends and make new acquaintances, particularly of the opposite sex. The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs runs a series of competitions throughout Wales throughout the year and the finals of the practical competitions usually take place at the Show. Amongst these events are stock judging and tractor driving.

External links

* [http://www.rwas.co.uk/ Official website]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/mid/sites/royal_welsh/ BBC Wales feature on the 2008 Royal Welsh]
* [http://www.fuw.org.uk/ Farmers' Union of Wales]