Caernarfon will be the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) feature county for 2025, with John R. Owen as president.
A lifelong advocate for agriculture and rural communities, Mr Owen, of Golygfar Dyffryn, Rowen, Conwy, brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role.
He farms 750 hectares of lowland and upland ground in the Carneddau Mountains. From his time as a Rowen YFC member, he has taken a keen interest in stockjudging and has been a regular exhibitor in the Royal Welsh Show sheep section.
A sheep section judge at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in 2010, he was chair of NFU Cymru’s Less Favoured Area Board for many years and is a Fellow of CARAS. Mr Owen sits on the RWAS Winter Fair committee and has been chief steward in the RWAS president’s section since 2012.
Supported by his wife, Marian, and children, Delyth and Dafydd, he will guide Caernarfon’s preparations to showcase the county’s unique contributions to Wales’ agricultural heritage and contemporary innovations.
“I am deeply humbled and thrilled to represent Caernarfon as we take centre stage for the Royal Welsh Show in 2025,” said John. “This is a tremendous opportunity to highlight the county’s rich farming traditions and the resilience of our rural communities. Together, we will present Caernarfon at its very best.”
Rhys Griffiths, who will be ambassador for Caernarfon’s activities, is renowned for his work championing rural development and youth engagement in farming.
“It’s an honour to serve as ambassador for Caernarfon during this exciting time,” he said. “I look forward to working further with the community to continue to bring together a vibrant programme of activities that reflect the vitality and diversity of our county and to represent the county at RWAS events during 2025.”
With its breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks and thriving agricultural industry, Caernarfon promises to be a captivating feature county.
The year-long programme will include fundraising events, community projects and educational initiatives that celebrate the county’s rural heritage while looking to the future of farming in Wales.
The Royal Welsh Show 2025, one of Europe’s largest agricultural events, will take place from July 21-24 at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. Caernarfon will be highlighted throughout the show, offering visitors a taste of the county’s rich culture, produce and talent.
