Sheep drovers seen in Hay on Wye for first time in over a century at launch of Royal Welsh Show

For the first time in more than a century, sheep drovers have been seen in Hay on Wye.

They made their special appearance at the launch event for this year’s Royal Welsh Show held at the Hay Festival, Dairy Meadows.

The procession of local drovers trod in their forefathers footsteps in celebration of Llanelwedd’s new sheep village, ‘Cynefin’ and other developments.

This is the first time that the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society and the Hay Festival have collaborated. It is timely, as Brecknock is 2026’s host county.

Show President, Gethin Havard said; “Seeing sheep travelling along the old Drovers route again was truly an extraordinarily moving spectacle.”

Aled Rhys Jones, Society Chief Executive remarked; “The 250 strong crowd at the event were enthralled with what they saw, and I’m sure they’ll be equally as enamoured with all the other new developments we have waiting for them at this year’s show.”

As the YFC celebrates its 90th birthday this year, an ensemble of members, under the guidance of Ambassador Teleri Haf Thomas, performed a rendition of the Federation’s anthem ‘Bydd Wych’ at the event too.

With 55 days to go until the 2026 Royal Welsh Show, it was announced that the event will be officially opened by Major Andy Butcher MBE.

For more information on the Royal Welsh Show visit https://rwas.wales/royal-welsh/