The historic Lord Mayor’s Show took place again on Saturday 11 November, and the NFU took part in the entry from the Worshipful Company of Farmers, supported by Case IH, Red Tractor and Surrey Docks Farm.
The long-standing procession saw over 100 floats parade thorough the streets of London, demonstrating the strength and diversity of the nation with appearances from the likes of the armed forces, charities, livery companies and many more.
Showcasing over 70 years of British farming
The farming presence in the parade is a way to remind the importance of farming to those who are less frequently exposed to it – this was reinforced by the theme of this year’s float, ‘feeding the nation’.
By reminding those seemingly detached from farming of how closely it’s involved with their day-to-day life, we aimed to highlight the vital importance of the industry.
Taking centre stage in the farming section of the parade was the impressive state-of-the-art Quadtrac 620 AFS Connect supplied by agricultural machinery manufacturer Case IH. This was accompanied by a Farmall 120C tractor, first introduced in 1923 and now celebrating its 100th anniversary.
“The Worshipful Company of Farmers is once again delighted to support the Lord Mayors Show and bring together representatives from the agricultural world.”
Master of the Worshipful Company of Farmers, Guy Brogden
NFU President Minette Batters said she was “thrilled” to have the opportunity be part of the show this year.
Speaking before the event, she said: “Despite the challenges faced this year, farmers and growers are still doing what we do best – producing great tasting homegrown food alongside the vital role in protecting and caring for the environment.
“We appreciate and value the public’s support and on Saturday we will be saying a massive thank you to everyone for continuing to back British farming.”
Next generation leading the way
Walking alongside the float were the NFU’s cohort of Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors, along with representatives from Red Tractor and Surrey Docks City Farm, ranging from eight to 25 years old. They engaged the crowds with high-fives, big smiles and plenty of cheer for British Farmers.
Prior to the day, Surrey Docks City Farm Manager Gemma Hooper said: “We are thrilled to have been invited to take part in the Lord Mayor’s Show, thanks to our long-standing relationship with the Worshipful Company of Farmers.”
“We are thrilled to have been invited to take part in the Lord Mayor's Show, thanks to our long-standing relationship with the Worshipful Company of Farmers.”
Surrey Docks Farm Manager, Gemma Hooper
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Photographs: The NFU's Student and Young Farmer Ambassador programme, along with representatives from Red Tractor and Surrey Docks City Farm.
Past and present on parade
Neil Macer, Marketing Manager UK & ROI at Case IH, shared how the display gives the opportunity to feature a nod to farming technology past and present: “This event is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate British farming and the essential role farmers play in feeding the nation, making the most of the latest technology and engineering.”
Farmers continue to deliver every single day
Red Tractor CEO Jim Moseley said: “At Red Tractor, we take pride in our commitment to working with farmers who produce food which is safe, traceable and farmed with care. Being a part of the Lord Mayor’s Show is a celebration of our members’ hard work and relentless efforts to produce quality food for the nation. The show allows us to bring our story to the heart of the city.”
Prior to the event, NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Darcy Johnson appeared on London Live alongside Worshipful Company of Farmers liveryman Richard Price to promote our involvement in the event. Watch here from 23:54.