Long‑serving Shropshire agricultural stalwart named Newport Show president

Newport Show has appointed well-known local agricultural figure Neil Wagstaff as its new president as preparations begin for the 2027 event.

Following the success of Newport Show in July, the Newport & District Agricultural Society have announced Neil Wagstaff as the show’s president for 2027.

A graduate of Harper Adams University, Neil has been closely involved with Shropshire’s agricultural community for more than 33 years through his work with the National Farmers’ Union and NFU Mutual.

Although not born in Shropshire, Neil has spent most of his life in the Newport area and has developed strong links with farming businesses and the wider rural community.

Speaking about his new role, Neil said: “We are blessed with such productive and progressive farming and diversified businesses in the area. Not only arable crops and livestock, but also salads, flowers, soft fruit and poultry – Shropshire has it all, and I feel privileged to work alongside such great businesses.

“Newport Show offers a fantastic opportunity for everyone in the rural community to come together and enjoy a great day out. Whether it is the livestock, horses, rural lifestyle, vintage machinery or great food, the show really does have it all.”

Neil lives at nearby Field Aston with his wife, Heather. Their two sons now work away from the area but return to Newport Show each year to help as stewards.

For the family, as with many of the show’s visitors, exhibitors and volunteers, the event has become an annual opportunity to catch up with friends and family.

As President, Neil is keen to support the continued development of the show while ensuring its agricultural heritage remains at its heart.

“We have some great plans to continue developing the show,” he said. “As a Society, we have always been keen to remain an agricultural show at heart. Entries in the livestock section continue to grow, while the equipment displayed by exhibitors and the vintage machinery help to keep our core farming community engaged throughout the day.

“At the same time, the team has done some wonderful work developing the Rural Lifestyle, Festival of Food and educational areas. Along with the Dog Show, these attractions mean there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Neil is looking forward to working with the society, its volunteers, exhibitors and supporters as preparations gather pace for Newport Show 2027.

Newport & District Agricultural Society has been promoting agriculture and rural life in the area since 1889. Newport Show continues to bring together the farming and rural community alongside local businesses, families and visitors from across Shropshire and beyond.

Organisers say that Newport Show 2027 will build on the success of this year’s event, celebrating agriculture, rural life, food, farming and the wider community.