The Reception party with HRH touring the outdoor exhibits, from left to right: Mr James Forknall, The Princess Royal, Mr Hugh Goldsworthy and Mr James Wallis. (c) Thomas Alexander
It was a cold, wet and blustery day when HRH The Princess Royal arrived at the Kent County Agricultural Showground, Detling, on 2nd March, to visit Agri-Expo, 2016.
The Princess Royal meeting Mr James Wallis, Director, Ramsak Ltd, with the Lord-Lieutenant in the background. (c) Thomas Alexander.
The reception party made a swift walk past the outside exhibits and thence into the shelter of the Kent Pavilion to visit the stands and talk to the exhibitors.
The Princess Royal making a tour of the indoor exhibits. (c) Thomas Alexander
It can be difficult for farmers and growers to evaluate the benefits of new equipment just by looking through a catalogue, and shopping around is difficult if you need to visit several different dealerships to compare what is on offer. This was the inspiration behind this industry-wide event, giving farmers and growers the opportunity to compare rival products side by side and talk to the manufacturers before making a purchase.
That’s what inspired Agri-Expo to set up the machinery demonstration days and it’s the same logic that has now resulted in this big industry-wide event. How else can you get to talk to the manufacturers’ representatives, see rival products side by side and really get to grips with a new bit of kit before getting your cheque book out?
During the tour The Princess Royal presented the Chris Smith Trophy – awarded to The Best New Exhibitor – to Karl Glass of Kirkland UK Ltd.
The Princess Royal was presented with a posy by Miss Grace Wickham (aged 4), granddaughter of Group Manager, Mrs Karen Wheeler.The posy created by Floristry Students at Plumpton College.
