A Llanerfyl farmer has been chosen to represent Welsh farming at one of the most popular historic civic pageants in the world.

Matt Launder is one of eight young farmers to have been selected to join the Lord Mayor’s Show after a nationwide search to find farmers who have made an outstanding contribution to the agricultural sector.

The world’s oldest civic parade marks the first public engagement of the new Lord Mayor of the City of London.

The procession includes 7,500 participants, 200 horses, 140 floats, 20 marching bands, dancers, performers, armed forces and livery companies.

The 25-year-old is a first generation upland farmer who farms more than 1,000 Cheviot sheep at Gyfylchau. He has featured on BBC Countryfile where he showed presenter Adam Henson his method of managing a large flock of Cheviot sheep and New Zealand sheepdogs, also known as Huntaways.

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

“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 representatives at last year's Lord Mayor's Show

The 803rd Lord Mayor’s Show takes place in November and NFU Cymru is 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.

Matt is a keen ambassador for the agricultural industry and is also a member of the NFU Cymru Next Generation Group.

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.”