This year’s Norfolk Show was most definitely a sun-drenched affair, with an estimated 85,000 people visiting this much-loved event. I was lucky enough to be part of the M+A entourage at the show and had a wonderful two days meeting clients and talking to visitors and exhibitors, celebrating all we grow and produce.
The morning happily kicked off with breakfast, hosted by Mills & Reeve in the Vice Presidents Pavillion. This locally sourced breakfast was enjoyed with over 200 other business leaders, whilst watching the presentation of the Mills & Reeve Grey Partridge Award – this year going to the Sandringham Estate, recognising the huge contributions made by Sir Marcus O’Lone and David Clark.
Breakfast was also a chance to share ideas and priorities on shaping the future of British agriculture. The use of technology and how we can try to keep this at the forefront of modern agriculture was a topic up for debate. Digital connectivity was highlighted as a key concern, in particular broadband coverage, with the primary obstacle to successfully utilising technology being a lack of awareness of what is actually available. When it came to the inevitable topic of the moment, Brexit, guests came in favour of Remain (60%), with 12.4% saying they would vote a different way from two years ago.
Food has to be a defining part of the show and so breakfast turned into lunch with M+A Partners hosting a table for clients in the Vice Presidents Pavilion. Proceedings started in fine style with Pimms outside in the glorious sunshine, moving inside to sample delicious food served by Brasteds.
Of course, I couldn’t leave without afternoon tea, taken whilst listening to a talk on the Brewin Dolphin 2018 RHS Chatsworth Flower Show installation.
The Norfolk Show is the UK’s largest two day county show and is packed full of businesses and organisations that each offer something special to our region – it is also pretty full of lots of delicious home grown treats and I certainly sampled some of the best whilst chatting to professional peers and clients. Looking forward to 2019 and another successful show.
