MP to speak at major annual show

The CLA will host awards celebrating the best of rural Sussex, as well as a talk from a senior MP, when the South of England Show returns next month.

CLA South East, which represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses in Sussex and beyond, will once again have a marquee on the main Ardingly Ring.

It will be at the show from Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12 with a marquee and packed schedule of speakers, awards, breakfast, drinks and more.

On the first day, the marquee will have a ‘levelling-up’ theme, with a breakfast and keynote talk from Arundel and South Downs MP Andrew Griffith. Attendees will hear his thoughts on the government’s levelling-up programme and in particular how it will impact rural communities and businesses.

The day will also see the return of our rural awards and drinks reception, celebrating the achievements of individuals, communities and businesses in rural Sussex.

CLA director general Sarah Hendry will present the awards from 3.30pm, with the winner of the President’s Cup nominated by Action in Rural Sussex, the Woodpecker trophy recipient chosen by the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) and the CLA Rose Bowl given to the Sussex Young Farmer of the Year on behalf of Sussex Young Farmers’ Club.

On the second day, the marquee will focus on education and access, with the aim of promoting the Countryside Code.

For more details, visit www. cla.org.uk/in-your-area/southeast