Three finalists for the 2026 Sir Bryner Jones Award, one of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s premier awards, have been announced.
Brian Davies, Brecknock, Edward Morris, Pembrokeshire and Enid Williams, Anglesey are shortlisted for the award, which will be presented at next month’s Royal Welsh Show at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.
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 RWAS for 50 years. He served as Agricultural Commissioner for Wales, Welsh Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Royal Welsh Show president 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 Harry Fetherstonhaugh OBE and Susan Jones said they were impressed by the exceptional standard of nominations.
“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 said.
“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.”
Mr 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.
Mr 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.
Ms 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 on Monday, July 20 at 2.30pm.
The recipient will receive the Sir Bryner Jones Memorial Trophy, medal and certificate. The medal is sponsored by Gareth Roberts, an RWAS Board of Direct member and previous recipient.
Tickets for the four-day show, which runs until Thursday, July 23, are available from: www.rwas.wales.
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