Prince of Wales collects award at Royal Welsh

The Prince of Wales’ has been presented with the George Hedley Memorial Award in a special ceremony at the Royal Welsh Show.

The NSA George Hedley Memorial Award is given annually to recognise an individual for their outstanding contribution to the sheep sector. HRH was announced as the 2012 recipient earlier this year and the NSA was delighted he was able to accept his award in such a public setting with so many people in attendance.

Presenting the award, NSA Chairman John Geldard said: “In its 52-year history the George Hedley Memorial Award has recognised a wealth of great people who have made incredible contributions to the industry, and it is a pleasure to add a member of the royal family to that list for the first time.

“Over the last two decades The Prince of Wales has taken an enormous interest in farming, and sheep and the uplands in particular. He has great knowledge and an inspirational vision of agriculture and food production and has drawn attention both to the issue of food security and local supply chains. I have seen His Royal Highness with retailers on the edge of their seats as he gently encourages them to look at local food for the local economy, and make a real difference in some desperate times.

“The Prince of Wales is been directly and deeply involved in the Mutton Renaissance, Campaign for Wool and Cambrian Mountain Lamb, to mention just three projects that are directly related to the sheep industry. We are grateful for his influence and encouragement for our sector, and believe he is a very worthy recipient of this award.”

The winner of the George Hedley Memorial Award is voted for annually by NSA representatives, following nominations from a number of committees, organisations, breed and show societies involved in the sheep sector. Nominations for the 2013 award will be invited later this year.