February 27th 2006
Welsh Blacks celebrate 25 years of Royal Patronage

It is 25 years since HRH The Prince of Wales became Patron to Wales ' only native breed of cattle – the Welsh Blacks.

A quarter of a century later and the Welsh Black Cattle Society (WBCS) continue to enjoy and appreciate the Prince's sustained support.

“Over the twenty five years the Society and its members are pleased and proud to acknowledge the concern and support offered by HRH The Prince of Wales to agriculture in the UK , and especially in Wales ,” said WBCS Chief Executive, Andrew James.

“Prince Charles visits the Welsh Black cattle exhibitors to view their cattle when attending the Royal Welsh Show at Builth Wells – the last time during our centenary year in 2004 – and it is a gesture which is always warmly appreciated and enjoyed by both parties.

“The contribution by Prince Charles is greatly appreciated and long may his patronage continue with the Society.”

Welsh Black cattle form part of the Prince's own farming activities. He has two breeding cows and calves on his Gloucester farm which was viewed by WBCS organic and council members when invited as part of the Society's centenary celebrations.

The Prince's interest in, and support for, the farming industry in Wales is well known, and he is a stalwart of organic food production.

At the 2001 Royal Welsh Winter Fair, he gave his backing to the launch of the WBCS's Organic Club. While one of the Prince's most recent engagements with the Society was at the opening last July of the Cig Calon Cymru Cyf abattoir at cross Hands which is owned by Welsh Black breeder and Society member Enzo Sauro.

“There are also some more subtle Royal and Welsh Black links,” added Mr James.

“The Prince of Wales' investiture was held in 1969 in Caernarfon castle, the Royal town where the Society's registered office is situated, at 13 Bangor Street .

“While at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle - where the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall's marriage was blessed last year – there stands a sculpture of a Welsh Black bull which was erected over the banner of the Rt Hon The Lord Morris of Aberavon, KG, QC.”

NOTES TO EDITORS

Photos available on request:

Tel: 07968 357474

Pic Captions:

1. The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall along with the Rt Hon The Lord Morris of Aberavon at the official opening of the Cig Calon Cymru Cyf abattoir at Cross Hands (12/07/05).

2. The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall with members of the Welsh Black Cattle Society and the Rt Hon The Lord Morris of Aberavon.

For further information please contact:

Andrew James, Chief Executive Welsh Black Cattle Society

Tel: 01982 551111