Montgomeryshire celebrated at the heart of Welsh politics

The best of Montgomeryshire’s food, farming and tourism took centre stage at the Senedd this week during a special event celebrating the county’s rural businesses and communities. 

Hosted by Montgomeryshire MS Russell George, alongside the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW), Montgomeryshire Day showcased local producers, organisations and enterprises to Members of the Senedd, government officials and industry stakeholders on Monday, 11 November.

The event highlighted the depth of talent and innovation across the county’s rural economy - from family-run farms and heritage wool to award-winning food and drink, as well as unique tourism experiences. It also provided an opportunity for exhibitors to make new connections and share their ambitions for growth.

Among those exhibiting were the FUW, Montgomery Young Farmers (YFC), British Wool Marketing Board, Graig Farm Organics, Wild Welsh Wool, Get Jerky, Cambrian Training, Caws Gynog, Montgomery Waters, Radnor Preserves, Sun Gin, Bettws Hall, Monty’s Brewery, The Welsh High Street, and Mid Wales Tourism.

A highlight of the day came from pupils of Ysgol Gymraeg Y Trallwng in Welshpool, who performed a series of songs - including Calon Lân - joined on stage by the First Minister, in what many described as a standout moment.

Russell George MS said: “Montgomeryshire Day is about giving our local businesses and organisations a national platform. The quality, craft and innovation on show at the Senedd spoke for themselves - our area is one which punches well above its weight.

From food and drink to wool, hospitality and outdoor experiences, these enterprises create jobs, sustain supply chains and keep our communities vibrant. I’m grateful to every exhibitor who travelled to Cardiff Bay and to colleagues who came to show their support.”

Wyn Williams, FUW Montgomeryshire Chair, added: “We are extremely grateful to Russell George MS for hosting this fantastic event, which brought the very best of Montgomeryshire to the heart of Cardiff Bay. It was a pleasure to see so many producers, rural businesses and community organisations come together to showcase the quality, innovation, and strong sense of community that define our area.”

He said the First Minister’s impromptu performance with Ysgol Gymraeg Y Trallwng pupils “perfectly captured the spirit of the day.”