THE PRINCESS ROYAL NAMED PRESIDENT OF DEVON COUNTY SHOW 2025 - 🚜👩🌾🌳
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, has been appointed president of the 2025 Devon County Show, the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA) announced at its annual meeting on 31st January.
The Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA) announced the news at its annual meeting on 31st January and expressed its delight at having Princess Anne as the figurehead of one of the region’s most prestigious agricultural events.
The Princess, daughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II and sister to King Charles III, has a well-established reputation for her "longstanding commitment to food, farming, and the countryside". She runs her own farm and estate in Gloucestershire and has been a tireless advocate for supporting regional communities throughout her life.
Her deep-rooted passion for the countryside also extends to equestrian sport. She was the first member of the Royal Family to compete in the Olympic Games, riding Goodwill, the Queen's horse, in the equestrian three-day event - a testament to her lifelong commitment to both farming and horsemanship.
She takes over the presidency from Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines MBE DL and will be supported in her role by deputy president Roger Ellis.
Mr Ellis, a fourth-generation farmer from Dunchideock, has been involved with the Devon County Show for 60 years, most recently as chief steward of the horse section. He spoke of his gratitude at being appointed deputy president, particularly given his shared love of horses with the Princess Royal.
"I am honoured to take up the deputy presidency and will greatly enjoy supporting the Princess Royal during her year as our president, particularly given our mutual passion for horses and rural life," he said. "2025 also happens to be the year that my wife Mary and I celebrate our diamond wedding anniversary – 60 years of marriage, which is quite a milestone. It’s going to be quite a year all around."
Mr Ellis also reflected on the importance of the Devon County Show in his life, explaining that in his early years, it provided "a welcome distraction" from the responsibilities and challenges of running the family farm, particularly the heavy burden of death duties.
The appointment of Princess Anne comes as she continues to demonstrate an unwavering dedication to public service. She was recently named the hardest-working royal of 2024 for the fourth consecutive year, having carried out 395 engagements in the UK and 79 abroad.
The 2025 Devon County Show, taking place on 15th, 16th, and 17th May, promises an action-packed programme of events across the showground. Visitors can enjoy thrilling displays, competitions, and the spectacular Livestock Grand Parade in the Main Arena, alongside numerous other activities.
New exhibitors are also encouraged to take part in this prestigious event. Those interested in showcasing their trade at the show can register their interest by emailing tradestands@dcshow.org for further details.
For more information about the event, please visit the show's official website: www.devoncountyshow.co.uk
( Photo of HRH Princess Anne courtesy of the Devon County Show press room 📸 )
