Agricultural show stalwarts are finalists for prestigious Royal Welsh Show award

Agricultural show stalwarts to be recognised at this year’s Royal Welsh Show as finalists are announced for prestigious Sir Bryner Jones Award

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society has announced the three finalists for the 2026 Sir Bryner Jones Award, one of the Society’s premier awards presented annually at the Royal Welsh Show.

First presented in 1957, the award recognises an individual from a different area of the farming industry each year who has reached the highest level of achievement in their field. It is regarded as a once-in-a-lifetime honour, with nominations submitted by county advisory committees across Wales.

Sir Bryner Jones helped shape the direction of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society for 50 years. He served as Agricultural Commissioner for Wales, later becoming Welsh Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, and was President of the Royal Welsh in its Golden Jubilee year in 1954.

This year marks a first for the award, with agricultural shows selected as the theme.

The 2026 award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding contribution and shown exceptional dedication to the success of a local or regional agricultural show in Wales.

The theme proved hugely popular, with all 12 county advisory committees in Wales submitting nominations.

Judges Mr Harry Fetherstonhaugh OBE FRAgS and Mrs Susan Jones FRAgS said they were impressed by the exceptional standard of nominations.

They said: “We were impressed by every nominee’s outstanding quality. They have all demonstrated unwavering dedication to the agricultural show movement, giving an extraordinary amount of personal time, energy, and leadership, to the successful planning, development and delivery of respected local and regional agricultural shows.

“They have championed the importance of preserving the agricultural show tradition and adapting to modern expectations. Their commitment has extended far beyond routine volunteering, and their influence has created a lasting legacy which has shaped the identity, resilience and future direction of their events over many years.”

After careful consideration, the judges shortlisted the following finalists, in alphabetical order - Mr Brian Davies, Brecknock, Mr Edward Morris, Pembrokeshire and Ms Enid Williams, Anglesey.

Brian Davies has served Brecknock Agricultural Society for 59 years, helping sustain one of the UK’s oldest agricultural shows. A past Chairman, Vice Chairman and President, he has played a key role in encouraging young people and local families to become involved, helping secure the show’s long-term future.

Edward Morris has been closely involved with Pembroke Town and Country Show since 1970 and helped revitalise the event when it faced decline in 2005. His practical leadership, deep commitment and ability to inspire volunteers have been central to the show’s continued success.

Enid Williams has been instrumental in the revival and development of Anglesey Agricultural Society following the challenges of the post-Covid period. A past President, Director and Trustee, she has helped rebuild the organisation, strengthen its finances and encourage younger generations to take on leadership roles.The winner will be announced at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society Awards Ceremony in the Council Enclosure on the first day of the Royal Welsh Show, Monday, July 20, at 2.30pm.

The recipient will receive the Sir Bryner Jones Memorial Trophy, Medal and Certificate. The Society also acknowledges with thanks the sponsorship of the medal by Mr Gareth Roberts, a member of the Society’s Board of Directors and previous recipient.

The Royal Welsh Show 2026 will take place from Monday, July 20 to Thursday, July 23 2026 at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. For tickets and further information, please visit www.rwas.wales.