Debenham farmer, Thomas McVeigh, parades at Lord Mayor’s Show

A Debenham farmer has spoken of his pride at flying the flag for British farming at the historic Lord Mayor’s Show.

Thomas McVeigh took part in the spectacle with the Worshipful Company of Farmers on November 11, in his role as Student and Young Farm Ambassador with the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).

The arable crops, poultry and cattle farmer joined others in highlighting and celebrating the significant role that British farmers and growers play in feeding the nation, alongside caring for the environment.

Mr McVeigh said: “It was a fantastic experience and there was a real buzz in the parade.

“I am always happy to do my bit to promote the value of farming to people living in a city as it is where people are usually most disconnected from farming. It is important to really highlight the value in backing British farming to people living in these areas.”

A state-of-the-art Quadtrac 620 AFS Connect tractor, alongside a Farmall 120C tractor, first introduced in 1923 and now celebrating its 100th anniversary, were also part of the farmer’s parade.

NFU resident Minette Batters said: “I was thrilled to have the opportunity to experience the parade in person.

“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 we say a massive thank you to everyone for continuing to back British farming.”

The Lord Mayor’s Show is one of the best-known annual events in London, as well as one of the longest-established, with it dating back to the 13th century.

The parade took place in front of hundreds of thousands of spectators and was screened live on the BBC to an audience of millions.

The three-mile long procession included 7,000 people, 250 horses, Armed Forces personnel, charity and community groups and military bands, as well as 133 floats.