The Anglesey branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales enjoyed a busy two-day county show (Tuesday 13 August - Wednesday 14 August), with #FarmingMatters chats, children's competitions and plenty of entertainment keeping visitors to the stand entertained.
Members raised specific farming matters with Rhun ap Iorwerth AM and Llyr Huws Gruffydd AM at an open surgery, with a strong focus on the current Sustainable Farming and our Land consultation.
Those concerned about rural crime stopped by for advice on how to keep their property and livestock safe, with ‘Quad Claw’ and Arfon Jones North Wales Police, Police and Crime Commissioner and the North Wales rural crime team on hand to help.
Speaking after the event, FUW Vice President Eifion Huws said: “This year’s show was fantastic once again and I thank the organisers and everyone who joined us for making it such a success.
“Farming is facing an uncertain future for so many reasons and we raised some of our concerns with our politicians at the show. Because the UK Government is determined to take the UK out of the EU at the end of October, deal or no deal, members feel that they haven’t got enough time to fully consider what is being proposed in the Sustainable Farming and our Land consultation.
“That’s why Anglesey farmers asked for the deadline to be extended by a few a months, so that they can focus on their own contingency planning before responding to this important consultation.”
FUW Anglesey CEO Alaw Jones said : “Rural crime, including farm machinery thefts and livestock worrying, are also still a big problem for our farmers and we had good discussions with Arfon Jones at the show about it. Together I feel we can make a real difference to some of the problems our members are facing.”
Highlighting the importance of good mental health at the Union’s stand were the DPJ Foundation who were there for both days of the show.
“1 in 4 people will suffer with mental health problems in their lifetime, it is not an uncommon illness and one which we need to work together to tackle. That’s why I would like to thank the DPJ foundation for joining us at the show, providing an easy to access platform for our members to seek help,” said Alaw Jones.
Providing a light hearted finish on a wet Wednesday afternoon with baler twine, rigger boots and flat cap was the Welsh Whisperer, who performed at the FUW stand on Wednesday afternoon.
“We enjoyed hosting the Welsh Whisperer here at our stand - one thing is certain, the Welsh Whisperer attracts the attention of all ages and added the cheer that was very much needed,” added Alaw.
There were also competitions for the children, including guess where ‘Beryl, Cheryl and Meryl’ have come on holiday from, which were won by Tom and Leusa.