**Nigel Farage Faces Scepticism from Welsh Farmers at Royal Welsh Show Despite Charisma**
As the rolling hills of Powys played host to its annual celebration of agriculture, the Royal Welsh Show was once again abuzz with visitors seeking a day away from the demands of rural life. Amid the livestock displays and farming camaraderie, the event welcomed a political guest whose presence generated both excitement and unease among attendees—Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Mr Farage arrived at Llanelwedd not for leisure, but to engage. His visit was marked by a mix of handshakes, camera flashes, and a significant announcement: Wales now counts its first Reform MS, following the defection of Laura Anne Jones, the Conservative Senedd member for South East Wales. However, while Farage’s charisma drew a considerable crowd, it quickly became apparent that charm alone would not win over the farming community.
Farmers in attendance expressed a desire for substance rather than spectacle. Concerns over policies affecting the industry took precedence over party politics or high-profile defections. Issues such as the sustainable farming scheme, inheritance taxes, bovine TB outbreaks, and the impact of bluetongue zones were at the forefront of many minds. For these rural voters, experiences on the farm take precedence over the drama of Westminster or the Senedd’s internal affairs.
The showground provided some members of the public with their first chance to observe Farage in a distinctly Welsh context. One young farmer from the country’s south-west welcomed the opportunity to see the Reform leader, but echoed a wider sentiment—requesting greater clarity on agricultural policies. Others questioned whether Farage’s promises ahead of the Senedd elections would translate into tangible benefits for their livelihoods and sought clearer answers as to who would actually lead the party’s efforts in Wales.
Despite many being reticent to go on record about their political views, Farage’s magnetic presence was noticeable. The crowds around him rivalled those that greeted high-profile figures earlier in the week—with some attendees jesting that his security detail surpassed even Princess Anne’s during her visit. Enthusiastic supporters queued for selfies and exchanged pleasantries, while dissenting voices lingered in the background, muttering their scepticism about Reform UK’s platform.
Liz Powell, a beef and lamb farmer from Brecon, did not mince her words. Passing by the bustling Reform tent, she labelled the display “ridiculous” and questioned the sincerity of any politician claiming to champion rural Wales without first understanding the hardships farmers endure. “He should come and work on a farm for three months—no fancy cars, just the actual work,” she remarked, suggesting that real empathy was in short supply among political leaders.
Adding fuel to the speculation, local rumour suggested that outspoken Welsh farmer Gareth Wyn Jones might soon join Reform in a more official capacity. Present in the press room, Jones declined to confirm any candidacy but stated that Farage had at least listened to farming representatives during a private meeting earlier in the day. However, he noted that farmers regularly meet with politicians of all stripes, hinting that more than a listening ear would be needed to earn their trust.
This visit underscores a recurring dilemma for outsider politicians seeking to court rural constituencies. Despite media attention and large crowds, winning over Welsh farmers requires more than attention-grabbing gestures or headline announcements. Concrete policy proposals, a genuine interest in rural issues, and a willingness to engage beyond the showground are necessary to sway this discerning electorate.
As the campaign for next year’s elections intensifies, farmers’ responses are likely to serve as a barometer for wider sentiment in Wales. For now, many remain watchful and unconvinced, awaiting substantive evidence that Reform UK can deliver meaningful change amid the unique challenges faced by the Welsh countryside. Mr Farage, for all his charisma, will need more than popularity to secure their backing.