A Montgomeryshire farmer has been selected to represent Welsh farming in one of the most popular historic civic pageants in the world.

The 803rd Lord Mayor’s Show takes place in November and NFU Cymru will again be supporting the Worshipful Company of Farmers alongside Massey Ferguson, Red Tractor, the UK’s largest farm and food assurance scheme, and Surrey Docks City Farm, to help take the Back Welsh and British Farming message into the heart of the City of London.

At 25 Matt Launder is a keen ambassador for the agricultural industry and is also a member of the NFU Cymru Next Generation Group. He was selected, along with another seven youngsters, after a nationwide search to find young farmers who have made an outstanding contribution to the agricultural sector.

As an additional prize this year, one of those selected will be invited by Massey Ferguson on a special trip to Beauvais in Northern France as a guest to tour the factory and enjoy an overnight stay.

Following his successful selection, Matt said: “I’m really looking forward to being able to represent Welsh farming and shout about how great our industry is during the parade.

“I have only ever dreamed of being a farmer and to be involved in the industry. I am passionate and want to spread the word of what we do as farmers to protect our environment while producing great food.”

NFU Cymru president, John Davies said: “The Lord Mayor’s show provides us with the perfect opportunity to showcase the best of Welsh and British farming to millions of people and explain the crucial role of the industry and its vital place in the wider food industry.

“I’m sure Matt will be a great ambassador for Welsh farming, he’s enthusiastic and keen to promote the industry to the people of London and the world.”

This year’s Worshipful Company of Farmers’ entry into the Lord Mayor’s Show will incorporate a tractor, a combine harvester and food, with the participants providing the heart and soul of the exhibit.