British farming is ranked as one of the most important and well-respected professions in the country, second only to nursing², with 92% of people feeling it's important Britain has a productive farming sector.

 

For Saturday's historic procession through the streets of the City of London, the Worshipful Company of Farmers³, one of the modern-day livery companies, will also be supported by the NFU, Surrey Docks Farm and Red Tractor Assurance.

 

Taking centre stage will be an iconic JCB Fastrac 8330, alongside a JCB Loadall telescopic handler. Walking alongside will be former NFU Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors, Red Tractor representatives and youngsters from the Surrey Docks Farm.

 

Master of the Worshipful Company of Farmers Jeremy Finnis said: "Leading the farmers' entry to showcase British food production at this year's show is a great privilege. The event is drenched with history and shows off the City of London to wonderful effect.

 

"We are very pleased to have the support of JCB, the NFU and Red Tractor for our display this year. We will also have a team of youngsters from Surrey Docks Farm as part of our float too. Do give us a wave and a cheer as we go by."

 

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "British farmers are proud to produce the food that feeds the nation, while delivering for nature, rural communities and the wider economy.

 

"But we are under the cosh and facing huge challenges from price volatility, extreme weather, uncertainty around the future of environmental schemes and changes to inheritance tax, leaving farmer confidence at a record low. The upcoming Budget presents government with an ideal opportunity to renew its relationship with the industry by introducing tax measures that will kickstart investment and growth and deliver the foundations for a resilient food system that 70 million consumers rely on every day.

 

"It's heartening that the British public continue to support us and value what we do in record numbers – our latest farmer favourability survey again ranked farmers second only to nurses. Saturday's parade gives us a fantastic opportunity to not only support the great work of the Worshipful Company of Farmers, but to also say directly to the public a huge thank you for continuing to back British farming."

 

Managing Director, JCB Agriculture, John Smith, said: "JCB has been backing British farmers since 1945, and agriculture is a huge part of our business 80 years on.

 

"We are delighted to support the show and everything it represents."

Jim Moseley, CEO of Red Tractor, said: "As Red Tractor marks 25 years of championing British farming, we're immensely proud to partner with farmers who produce food that is safe, traceable, and responsibly produced. Taking part in the Lady Mayor's Show is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate their hard work and dedication in providing high-quality food for the nation.

 

"Together with the Worshipful Company of Farmers, the NFU, JCB and Surrey Docks Farm, we're delighted to share our story in the heart of the city and showcase the very best of British farming."

 

Surrey Docks Farm Manager Gemma Hooper said: "Surrey Docks Farm is delighted to represent British Farming and also raise the profile of city farms with our team of volunteers in this year's Lady Mayor's Show. We have a long-standing relationship with the Worshipful Company of Farmers and are thrilled to be invited to take part once again."