John Henning named as new RUAS President

THE new President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) is John Henning (right), who is familiar to many people in agricultural circles in

Fermanagh.

Mr. Henning started out in his banking career in Fermanagh and is a regular visitor to the county, meeting friends.

On Friday last, he was elected as the 37th

President of the Society, which he joined as a member in 1979, was elected to Council in 1995, and has served on the Council Show Stewards, Sheep and Show Safety committees.

Mr. Henning has also held the role of Chairman of the Cattle Committee and was elected twice as Chairman of the Winter Fair Committee.

Having stewarded at the Balmoral Show and Winter Fair on more than 65 occasions, Mr. Henning’s expertise in the ring has proved invaluable to the Society in recent years.

The 2024 Balmoral Show will not only mark his first engagement as President of the RUAS, but also his 30th consecutive year as an exhibitor.

Originally from Markethill in County Armagh, he grew up on a dairy farm and from here developed a passion for cattle.

Alongside his wife and fellow Society member,

Ann, he built their own herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle in Maghaberry which they show regularly.

From 1978 until 2016, Mr. Henning’s name was synonymous with Danske Bank (formerly Northern Bank), particularly within the agribusiness division, and his career and voluntary roles have seen him meet industry leaders and producers from across the province.

From his involvement in the Council for Awards of Royal Agricultural Societies (CARAS), to the Ulster Grassland Society, Lantra, northern section of the Guild of Agricultural Journalists of Ireland and supportive roles within Gleno Valley Young Farmers Club, Mr. Henning has reached the industry at a variety of levels and continues to engage with producers on a regular basis.

Speaking about his appointment, he said: “It is a huge honour to be elected President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society.

“I attended my first Show almost 60 years ago and have been actively involved with the Society in various roles since 1979.

“It’s a pleasure to succeed my good friend, Mrs. Christine Adams, as President, and I look forward to working with all the Council and staff as we celebrate 170 years of the RUAS.

“I cannot wait to welcome everyone to this year’s Balmoral Show, from Wednesday, May 15 to Saturday, May 18 at the Eikon Exhibition Centre.”

The RUAS has reminded livestock and equine exhibitors that entries for Balmoral Show 2024 close on Wednesday next, March 20, at 5pm.