Photos: The stunning return of Royal Welsh Show

The iconic Royal Welsh Show took place this week as thousands of people returned to Builth Wells for the four-day celebration of farming – one of the biggest agricultural shows in Europe.

Here is a pick of the best photos.

See also: Royal Welsh Show exhibitors take precautions in blistering heat

Katie Miles © Debbie James

Katie Miles, charity manager at the DPJ Foundation, sits on the Fordson vintage tractor that was up for grabs in a raffle to raise money for the mental health charity.

Representatives from the charity were also on hand to talk about mental health awareness in rural communities.

Sarah Thomas © Debbie James

Sarah Thomas, office manager at NFU Cymru, gives the flowers a much-needed drink of water amid sweltering temperatures at the show.

Jessica Simms © MAG/Phillip Case

Jessica Simms travelled from Northwich, Cheshire, to show her Limousin heifers – securing second and third places in her competitions.

© Ellie George

On display at the show was this winning shot from NFU Cymru’s “Best of Welsh Farming” photography competition, created to mark the return of the event after a three-year hiatus due to coronavirus.

Hundreds of entries were whittled down to a shortlist of 25. Ellie George from Monmouthshire took first place with her stunning picture of sheep.

© FCN

The Welsh-language version of Sir Port, the Farming Community Network’s popular children’s book designed to help young people in rural areas develop resilience skills and a positive approach to change, was launched at the Show.

Katie Davies and Dafydd Jones © Debbie James

Katie Davies and Dafydd Jones, of Penybont, Carmarthen, get their pedigree Welsh Mountain ewe lamb ready for the show ring.