Television programs like Clarkson’s Farm are igniting a renewed enthusiasm for farming, bringing fresh attention and energy to the agricultural industry.
Ally Hunter Blair, a Herefordshire farmer and special guest at this year’s Royal Three Counties Show, welcomes this surge of interest. His family has been farming at Weir End Farm near Ross since 1968, and he eagerly anticipates the annual event.
At the show, Ally will host and participate in panel discussions alongside other leading industry experts at the Future of Farming theatre throughout the weekend. He notes that this growing popularity is reaching audiences who previously had little interaction with farming.
The Royal Three Counties Show offers a unique platform to showcase the region’s finest agricultural achievements. “The show has always been excellent at highlighting all aspects of agriculture,” Ally explains. “From machinery and livestock to the sheer scale of farming operations, it connects people to the countryside and deepens their understanding of what farming is all about. It’s fantastic.”
Programs like Clarkson’s Farm have played a pivotal role in creating this new buzz around agriculture. “There’s genuine enthusiasm now from people who might never have considered farming before,” Ally says.
This renewed interest is attracting fresh talent to the industry—something vital for an ever-evolving sector. “As a farmer, I believe we need outsiders to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives that challenge long-held traditions,” he explains.
“The agricultural industry has survived by continually adapting and reinventing itself—we must continue to do so. This is a tremendous opportunity.”
In addition to panel discussions, Ally will provide commentary on machinery demonstrations in the main arena and showcase local produce through food demonstrations featuring regional restaurants. He highlights the diverse offerings at the Royal Three Counties Show as an experience for everyone.
“The variety at the Three Counties Show is incredible,” he says. “Whether it’s cookery demos, driving tractors, interviewing guests, or discussing farming’s future, there’s genuinely something for everyone.”
Tickets for the Royal Three Counties Show 2026 start at £25, with under-16s admitted free.