In perfect surroundings in the heart of farming Cumbria, on Thursday 28th March 2013, HRH The Prince of Wales was presented with The Royal Smithfield Club Bicentenary Trophy Award as the winner of this most prestigious livestock industry trophy.
On presenting the trophy the Club’s immediate past President, Mr John Coultrip, gave the selection committees citation highlighting His Royal Highnesses support for British livestock farmers and the British meat industry.
His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has always been a staunch supporter of the British livestock industry and of British farming in all sectors. During the many difficult times for the industry, HRH has delivered lasting benefit to the British sheep industry with his leadership on mutton and wool along with organic enterprise and has inspired many livestock producers through the running of his own farm at Highgrove. As Patron of many Breed Societies he has given tireless support to the improvement of the science and development of breeding, genetics and quality livestock and is recognised throughout our industry as an extraordinary ally and knowledgeable spokesman. He is without question the outstanding winner.
The Club Chairman, Mr Angus Stovold, explained that the trophy was created to celebrate the bicentenary of the founding of the Smithfield Club in 1798. The trophy is awarded each year to a person or organisation deemed to have made a significant contribution to the UK livestock and meat industry. Recipients can be from any part of the industry - from livestock producers through education, research and processing to retailing, and those who have championed all sectors over many years.
As a farmer in his own right, a huge supporter of livestock farmers, someone who has been involved in research and education, and with considerable retail interests, His Royal Highness was the unanimous choice of the selection committee.
HRH The Prince of Wales receives the Royal Smithfield Club Bicentenary Trophy from John Coultrip (Immediate Past President of The Royal Smithfield Club)
Behind – Left to Right: John Campbell (Past Club Chairman), Julian Hopwood (Club Chairman Elect), Rees Roberts (2011 Trophy winner) and Angus Stovold (Club Chairman)