Campsite bosses offer condolences after man's 'unexplained' death at site near Royal Welsh Showground

Three men have been arrested

The bosses of a campsite near the Royal Welsh Showground where a man died have extended their condolences to the man's family.

Penmaenau Farm Camping released a statement after a 25-year-old man died on Saturday (July 18) following a medical emergency on the site.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of drugs-related offences following the man’s death.

Police said he died despite the efforts of paramedics called to Penmaenau Farm campsite, near to the Royal Welsh Showground, at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, on Saturday night.

A statement from the campsite said: “The Penmaenau family would like to extend our sincere condolences to the individual's family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“We would like to reassure all campers and visitors that this was a medical emergency. There was no attack, assault or violent incident connected to this tragic event. We are actively working with the police regarding this incident.

“Penmaenau Farm Camping remains open as normal for Royal Welsh 2026. The safety and wellbeing of everyone on site remains our highest priority, and we continue to operate as a safe and secure site with our security team and staff available around the clock.”

Penmaenau Farmplaceholder image
Penmaenau Farm | Photo: Penmaenau Farm Camping

They said that anyone who has concerns or requires any assistance during their stay should speak to a member of the security team, general staff, visit the site office, or approach any member of the Penmaenau team, who will be happy to help.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Steve Davies of Dyfed-Powys Police said it was a "tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with the young man's family at this difficult time".

Wales's biggest annual agricultural festival, the Royal Welsh Show, is due to get under way on Monday.

A spokesperson for the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said they would "support police "as their enquiries continue".

"I would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and the death is currently being treated as unexplained," said Mr Davies.

"There is no evidence of any ongoing risk to the wider public in connection with this sad incident."

Following the death, three men were arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences and remain in custody.

Councillor Richard Church, Powys County Council's cabinet member for a safer Powys, said it was a "deeply sad incident".

"The safety and wellbeing of residents, visitors and everyone attending the area during Royal Welsh Show week remains our highest priority," he said.

"We want everyone visiting the area to enjoy themselves, but please do so safely, look after each other and never be afraid to ask for help if you need it."

A spokesperson for the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said: "We are deeply saddened by this tragic news, and our thoughts are with the young man's family and friends, and with everyone affected by this incident.

"The safety and wellbeing of everyone attending the event remains our priority. We are working closely as members of the Builth Wells Event Safety Group, which has extensive measures in place, including welfare and support services, medical provision and safety initiatives. We want everyone attending to feel supported and to have a safe and enjoyable time."

Local news you can trust
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice