The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) has presented a cheque for £65,000 to Wales Air Ambulance Charity, marking the culmination of fundraising efforts during Ian Rickman's first term as FUW President between 2023 and 2026.
The cheque was formally handed over by FUW President Ian Rickman during a visit to the Wales Air Ambulance's Dafen base in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire.
The impressive total was raised through a wide range of fundraising initiatives organised by the Union, its members and FUW Insurance Services Ltd over the past three years. These included the FUW's annual Farmhouse Breakfast Week, an ATV raffle, collections and fundraising activities at agricultural shows across Wales, alongside numerous county and staff events.
The presentation comes at a particularly significant time for the charity, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. Established on St David's Day in 2001, Wales Air Ambulance has grown from a single helicopter operating five days a week into one of the UK's most advanced consultant-led air ambulance services. Today, it operates four helicopters and a fleet of rapid response vehicles, delivering hospital-standard critical care across Wales 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Since its first mission, the service has responded to more than 56,000 incidents and continues to rely on public donations to raise the £13 million needed each year to keep its lifesaving service operating.
Commenting, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: "I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together in support of Wales Air Ambulance Charity over the past three years. The fantastic amount we have raised is a reflection of the generosity and community spirit of FUW members, staff and rural communities across Wales, and I would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported our fundraising efforts.
"Whether it was attending one of our January breakfast events, buying a ticket for our ATV raffle or making a donation for tea or coffee at a local agricultural show, every contribution has helped make this campaign such a success. It is the countless acts of kindness and generosity from people across Wales that have enabled us to raise these vital funds.
"Wales Air Ambulance provides an invaluable, lifesaving service for people across Wales, particularly in our rural communities, and it has been a privilege to support the charity. I am very grateful to everyone who has helped us raise these funds, and I know they will make a meaningful difference in ensuring the Wales Air Ambulance can continue delivering critical care whenever and wherever it is needed most."
Dr Sue Barnes, Chief Executive of Wales Air Ambulance Charity, said: “We have had a fantastic three years working with Ian and his brilliant team. “It has been a joyous pan-Wales partnership, involving our staff, crew and volunteers across the country.”
“Collaborations like this are key to everything we do, helping keep our helicopters in the sky and rapid response vehicles on the road.
“From Farmhouse Breakfast Week and tractor runs to county shows and the FUW at 70 celebrations, Farmers’ Union of Wales members have raised an extraordinary amount for our Charity.
“This is equivalent to the cost of eighteen missions. They truly are lifesavers.”
Ian Rickman was re-elected as FUW President at the Union's June 2026 Grand Council. His chosen charity for his new presidential term will be announced during the Royal Welsh Show later this month.
The countdown is on to the 2026 Royal Welsh Show, taking place from Monday 20 July to Thursday 23 July at Llanelwedd, and the Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) and FUW Insurance Services Ltd are looking forward to welcoming members, customers and visitors for four fantastic days celebrating the very best of rural Wales.
The Union's Pavilion will once again host a varied programme of seminars, panel discussions and events throughout the week, alongside guest speakers, industry updates and opportunities to catch up with colleagues and friends from across Wales.
We're also delighted to welcome Bwncath back to the Pavilion on Tuesday evening, always one of the highlights of the Show.
Keep an eye on our website and social media channels in the lead-up to the Show for the latest programme details, event announcements and updates. We look forward to seeing you at Llanelwedd!
11:00- 11:30am - Monday - FUW Pavilion
Meet the Minister: Llyr Gruffydd MS, Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Join Farmers’ Union of Wales President Ian Rickman for a discussion with the Welsh Government Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd MS. This meeting will provide an opportunity for the Cabinet Minister to outline his priorities for the role and share his vision for the future of Welsh agriculture.
2:15pm - Monday - FUW Pavilion
Powering Rural Economies: Women Leading Change in Welsh Politics
Women in Public Affairs Cymru (WiPA), supported by Grasshopper Communications, is delighted to host a panel discussion at this year’s Royal Welsh Show exploring the role of women in shaping the future of rural Wales.
This timely discussion will bring together voices from politics, farming, communications and community leadership to examine how women are influencing policy and decision-making across rural Wales. The session will explore key issues including leadership pathways for women, the future of rural economies and agricultural transition, and how to strengthen the political voice and visibility of younger women.
Confirmed speakers include: Caryl Gruffydd Roberts (FUW), Clare Jones (Grasshopper Communications), Kate Miles, (DPJ Foundation).
11:00am - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
Livestock Numbers in Wales: Are we heading in the right direction?
Are livestock numbers in Wales moving in the right direction - and what does the future hold? This panel brings together key voices from across the supply chain to explore the pressures, policies and priorities shaping Welsh livestock farming. With growing focus on climate targets and calls to reduce emissions, the discussion will examine what changing livestock numbers could mean for the economy, the environment, and the future of rural and upland communities. Grounded in the FUW’s position that policies must not negatively impact livestock numbers, the session will challenge how we strike the right balance between environmental ambition and agricultural sustainability. An open and timely conversation, this seminar will offer insight, debate and practical perspectives on one of the most important issues facing Welsh farming today.
Panel: Cllr Wyn Evans FRAgS (Vice Chair of Welsh Lamb & Beef Producers), Professor Prysor Williams, Alastair Brown (LAA), Wyn Williams (FUW Farmer Director), Leisia Tudor (Dunbia), Cath Smith (Hybu Cig Cymru Chair)
1:00pm - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
Future of rural connectivity in Wales
Ofcom session
Reliable connectivity is essential for communities, businesses and public services across Wales. The session will explore the current state of mobile and broadband connectivity in rural areas of Wales and how we can ensure that connectivity works for everyone in the future.
With a panel of senior representatives from Ofcom, VodafoneThree, Openreach and the Farmers' Union of Wales, a live question and answer session will give you the opportunity to share your experiences, ask questions and engage directly with industry experts and policy makers.
6:30pm - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
BWNCATH Gig
Join us for a performance from the popular Welsh language group, Bwncath. Tickets available here:
https://farmersunionofwales.zohobackstage.com/Bwncath2026#/
10:00 - Wednesday - FUW Pavilion
BVD: Where are we?
As Phase 2 of the BVD (Wales) Order 2024 comes into force, understanding what the new rules mean for Welsh cattle farms has never been more important. At this year’s Royal Welsh Show, the Farmers’ Union of Wales will host a timely Question and Answer session exploring the practical implications of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) legislation across the diverse farming systems of Wales. With BVD continuing to impact herd health and farm profitability, this discussion offers a valuable opportunity to address concerns, clarify requirements and hear expert insight.
11:00 - Wednesday - FUW Pavilion
Cultivating content: Farming and social media
Social media has transformed how farming connects with the public, offering unprecedented opportunities to showcase life on the land and tell agriculture’s story firsthand. From creating content and growing a following to tackling misconceptions and promoting the realities of modern agriculture, our panellists will explore the power of digital platforms to reach new audiences. We’re particularly delighted to be joined by prominent online farming personality Cameron Wilson (Cammy) from The Sheep Game, Leah Meirion (Head of Agricultural Marketing Mole Valley Farmers) and Caryl Gruffydd Roberts from the FUW.
11:00am - Thursday - FUW Pavilion
Secure your Farm, Secure your Future
Join Detective Inspector Paul Hall from the Cyber Resilience Centre for Wales for an informative session on the growing cyber threats facing the farming community. Learn about the most common methods criminals use to target farmers online and discover practical steps you can take to protect your business, finances and personal information from cybercrime.
As the Phase 2 of the BVD legislation comes into force on the 1st of July 2026, FUW Policy Officer, Elin Jenkins provides a summary of what you need to know about eradicating BVD in Wales.
Background
BVD infection causes multiple health issues in cattle which include abortion, infertility and birth defects but also increases an animal's susceptibility in succumbing to other diseases. All in all, BVD infection in a herd equates to thousands of pounds in costs and reduced performance for businesses, which has led the desire to eradicate BVD from Welsh herds once and for all.
Although the historic Welsh BVD eradication scheme (GwareduBVD) was well supported, frustrations with the lack of enforcement in responsibly managing persistently infected animals were evident. Following consultation with members in 2022, the FUW supported the need for legislation to progress with BVD eradication.
Phase 1 commenced on the 1st of July 2025, which saw the introduction of The Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (Wales) Order 2024. This Phase mandated the annual screening of cattle herds in Wales and the provision to isolate all persistently infected animals from the rest of the herd and for the remainder of their lives.
Phase 2 : 1st July 2026
The second phase of legislation that comes into force on the 1st of July 2026 imposes stricter implications on herds that have either not got a BVD herd status or are ‘non-negative’ status.
Herd Status
BVD Negative Status: Given to a holding when an annual screen of a select number of youngstock returns a negative antibody test.
BVD Not-Negative Status: Given to a holding when an annual screen of a selected number of youngstock returns a positive antibody test, BVD is diagnosed by other means OR a holding’s annual screen has expired.
Unknown BVD Status: Given to a herd that has not conducted an annual screening.
For herds with a Negative Herd Status, there will be little change, only the existing requirement to uphold an BVD annual screening regime of the herd.
However, a herd with a Not-Negative or Unknown BVD Status will be required to arrange a vet to conduct a BVD antigen test on any cattle they wish to move off the holding (unless moving directly to slaughter). A negative ‘Post Movement Test’ will be valid for 60 days.
For cross border, or more specifically movements of cattle into Wales with an unknown BVD status, animals will have to be antigen tested within 20 days of arrival in Wales. This test can be done via the ‘Tag and Test’ method, by the farmer.
Coinciding with the introduction of the second phase was the launch of a BVDCymru test result database, which is accessible and managed through the EIDCymru platform. Members will have to register as cattle keepers on EIDCymru in order to view their herd and individual animal BVD test results. If you do not have digital access, then your vet will be able to notify you of your test results.
Industry collaboration through the work of BVDCymru Steering Group have brought forward amendments to BVD Legislation, however, as the roll out of Phase 2 beds down, it is important that you continue to communicate any issues or barriers with the FUW to influence future evolution of the programme.
Royal Welsh Show
The FUW will be joined by a panel of BVD experts at the Royal Welsh Show for a seminar focused on the efforts to eradicate BVD in Wales. If you do have any queries or questions you’d like to put forward to the panel for discussion regarding BVD legislation, please submit them via this form.
Further information can be found at BVDCymru.wales or contact BVDCymru on 01554 748 576
The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) recently welcomed Gŵyr Abertawe's newly elected Senedd Member, John Davies MS, to Cathelyd Isaf, Cwm Clydach, on the outskirts of Swansea, to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Welsh agriculture.
Hosted by farmer Ann Lewis, the visit provided an opportunity to showcase the farm's successful diversification. Having previously operated a suckler beef enterprise, Ann has since diversified into pig rearing, establishing the Mochyn Mawr business. The farm now rears several native breeds, including Large Black, Welsh, Saddleback and Pietrain pigs, with its free-range pork sold directly from the farm and at a range of local markets.
Discussions during the visit focused on the Welsh Government's Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), with Ann Lewis and FUW President Ian Rickman highlighting the importance of ensuring the scheme continues to evolve in close collaboration with the farming industry.
The Union emphasised the need to address ongoing concerns surrounding elements of the scheme, including veterinary costs and other practical issues affecting farm businesses, while ensuring the SFS remains practical, accessible and capable of supporting the long-term sustainability of Welsh agriculture.
A key focus of the discussion was the FUW's manifesto call for the new Welsh Government to establish a five-year financial framework for the Sustainable Farming Scheme budget. The Union believes a multi-year funding settlement would provide the medium-term certainty needed to support investment, resilience and confidence within Welsh farming businesses.
John Davies MS has recently been appointed to the Senedd's Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee as a Plaid Cymru representative.
Commenting following the visit, FUW President Ian Rickman said: "We are grateful to Ann for the warm welcome to Cathelyd Isaf and for sharing her experience of farming and diversification. The visit provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the Sustainable Farming Scheme, and to reinforce the need for the scheme to continue evolving in genuine collaboration with the farming industry.
"We also highlighted the importance of securing a five-year funding framework for the Sustainable Farming Scheme and delivering baselined Universal payment rates over the course of this Senedd term.Providing better financial certainty is essential if Welsh farmers are to have the confidence to invest in their businesses and continue producing high-quality food while delivering for the environment."
The FUW Group held its Annual Business Conference in Aberystwyth on 18 and 19 June, bringing together more than 100 staff members and senior officers from the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) and FUW Insurance Services Ltd to network, celebrate the successes of the past year and prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The conference programme featured a diverse mix of presentations, interactive sessions and panel discussions, focusing on the strategic priorities of both the Union and FUW Insurance Services.
The conference was opened by FUW Group Chief Executive, Guto Bebb, who reflected on the development and growth of the business over the past 12 months. He also outlined key priorities for the future as the Union implements its new membership structure and as FUW Insurance Services responds to an increasingly competitive and challenging insurance market.
A panel discussion, chaired by the Union’s Head of Communications, Aled Morgan Hughes, featured contributions from Ian Rickman and Ann Beynon OBE. The panel explored a range of topics relating to business development, leadership and the opportunities facing the agricultural sector in the years ahead.
The conference also welcomed two guest speakers. Hywel Ifans, owner of technology company BCCIT, shared his insights on the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, while businessman Gari Wyn, owner of Ceir Cymru, delivered an inspiring address on the importance of innovation, adaptability and maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
As part of the conference, FUW Insurance Services staff also participated in a dedicated ‘speed dating’ session with a range of insurer partners, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas and discuss current market trends, challenges and opportunities across the insurance sector.
Awards
The event also provided an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution of staff across the FUW Group, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in supporting members, customers and the wider agricultural sector.
Among the award winners, the Communications Team, comprising Aled Morgan Hughes, Nia Wyn Davies-Jones and Angharad Evans, received the Group Team of the Year Award. Meanwhile, Kath Shaw, Brecon and Radnor Member Services Manager, was presented with the Slaymaker Award, which is awarded annually to the county branch that has done most to promote the interests of members and the FUW.
FUW Insurance Services Senior Account Executive John Price received the Business Development Award, while Meinir Davies and Sian Powell were recognised with the Best Managed Portfolio Award. Theresa Phelps was named Account Handler of the Year, while Nia Evans received the inaugural FUW Insurance Services Culture Champion Award.
The FUW Group’s longstanding Finance Manager, Wyn Lewis, was presented with the Meurig Voyle Award, which recognises a member of staff who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, loyalty, support and enthusiasm towards the organisation over many years.
There was also special recognition for outgoing FUW Farmer Director, Darren Williams, as he leaves the role after 9 years in the role.
Guto Bebb, FUW Group Chief Executive, said:
"The Annual Business Conference is an important highlight in our calendar, giving colleagues from the Union and FUW Insurance Services the opportunity to come together to celebrate our successes, share ideas and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.
The atmosphere throughout the two days was extremely positive and constructive. It was particularly encouraging to see so many colleagues taking part in meaningful discussions and taking advantage of the opportunity to network, reflecting the strength of the collaborative spirit that is at the heart of our success.
Our staff are the backbone of the organisation, and it was a privilege to recognise their special contributions through the awards ceremony. We are extremely proud of all the winners and, indeed, of every member of our team who continue to contribute to the growth and success of the business, while serving the needs of members and rural communities in Wales on a daily basis."
The FUW Annual Business Conference was proudly sponsored by GEO, a valued insurance partner of FUW Insurance Services. The conference dinner was generously sponsored by MSIG Europe, while the awards ceremony was sponsored by Intact. The support of all three organisations played an important role in the success of the event and is greatly appreciated.
Commenting, Karen Royles, FUW Insurance Services Operations Director added:
“We’re particularly grateful for the sponsorship and support of so many of our valued insurer partners in making this event possible. Their continued commitment to our business and our customers is greatly appreciated, and the conference provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen those relationships, share insights and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing our industry.
The support of our partners plays a vital role in our success, and we value the chance to engage with them in person, celebrate our achievements together and look ahead to the future with confidence.”
Farmers’ Union of Wales (UAC Cyf.FUW Ltd) is not regulated by the FCA. FUW Insurance Services is a trading style of FUW Insurance Services Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration number 615251. Registered Office: Llys Amaeth, Plas Gogerddan, ABERYSTWYTH, SY23 3BT. Registered in England & Wales number 07981993
