Farming to take centre stage at Lord Mayor’s Show

The NFU, Red Tractor and the Worshipful Company of Farmers will use Saturday’s Lord Mayor’s Show in London to celebrate British food production, showcase agricultural innovation and encourage the public to support farmers.

A giant carrot harvester and flagship tractor will lead a celebration of British agriculture at this year’s parade, highlighting the technology, innovation and people behind domestic food production.

The farming entry, under the banner “Rooting for British Farming”, will be led by the Worshipful Company of Farmers and supported by the NFU, Red Tractor, Massey Ferguson, Huntapac Produce and Surrey Docks Farm.

See also: Farming Roadmap a ‘road to nowhere’, warns NFU president

The parade will provide an opportunity to bring the story of British farming to the heart of the capital, raising awareness of an industry which produces food for 29m UK households.

NFU vice-president Robyn Munt said the event was an opportunity to celebrate farming and highlight the challenges facing the industry.

© NFU

“We’re proud to be showcasing the very best of our industry, from the dedication of farming families and businesses to the technology, innovation and care that goes into producing food and managing our countryside,” she said.

She added that, with farmers facing significant challenges and uncertainty, it was important to highlight their contribution to feeding the nation and encourage continued public support.

Red Tractor chief executive Paul McLaughlin said the organisation was proud to stand alongside the farming community and its industry partners.

“We want people to feel proud of British farming and to look for the Red Tractor logo when they shop as a simple way to support it,” he said.

Marking a milestone

Stephen Watkins, Master of the Worshipful Company of Farmers, said this year marked the 40th anniversary of the organisation having a float in the show.

Young people from Surrey Docks Farm will also join the procession, alongside the NFU’s Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors and Red Tractor representatives.

Huntapac Produce managing director Will Hunter said the event was a chance to highlight the importance of supporting British farmers and home-grown produce.

The farming entry is number 15 in the three-mile procession, which takes place on Saturday 14 November. BBC1 coverage begins at 10.45am.