One of the most prestigious prizes in Welsh agriculture, the John Gittins Memorial Award for outstanding contributions to the Welsh sheep industry, has been awarded this year to Mr John Glandon Lewis, of Llanfair Caereinion, Montgomeryshire.
Glandon has dedicated more than four decades to serving the rural and agricultural communities of Montgomeryshire and beyond. Raised on a mixed livestock farm at Dolanog, he developed a lifelong passion for farming and rural life.
After studying Rural Estate Management at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, he qualified as a Chartered Surveyor before returning to Norman Lloyd & Co in 1987, where he has worked ever since.
As a respected auctioneer and partner in one of Wales’ prominent livestock auction businesses, Glandon has sold all classes of livestock across numerous markets. Throughout his career, he has supported farmers through significant industry challenges, including BSE, Foot and Mouth Disease, Bluetongue and more recent cross-border trading issues.
He has also been closely involved with the Welsh Mule sheep industry for more than 40 years. A strong advocate for livestock markets, recognising their important role in providing stability, setting market trends and ensuring fair competition for buyers and sellers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Glandon has made a significant contribution to rural culture and community life. His distinctive voice is well known both in the auction ring and on stages across Wales and beyond. Music has long been a family affair, with the family often performing together as Teulu Moeldrehearn. His musical career has included involvement with Cwmni Theatr Maldwyn in its early days and later with Cut Lloi.
A renowned compere and charity auctioneer, Glandon has supported countless local events and organisations through his talents. In 2022, he was elected President of the Welsh NSA Sheep Event, held at Red House, Aberhafesp. He has also served as President of both Llanfair Show and Llanfyllin Show in recent years.
Alongside his wife, Sioned, he continues to farm and manage a holiday-let business, while remaining actively involved in the agricultural show circuit.
The judging panel for this year’s award comprised Mr Dafydd Parry Jones, representing the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, Mr Richard Thomas, from the Welsh Mule Sheep Breeders Association Ltd, and Mr John Yeomans, from the National Sheep Association Wales.
The judges commented that the standard of nominations was once again outstanding. After interviewing a shortlist of three candidates, they were impressed by the achievements of all those shortlisted. Following careful consideration, they agreed that Mr Glandon Lewis was a worthy recipient of the 2026 John Gittins Memorial Award, recognising his lifetime contribution to the Welsh sheep industry.
Glandon will be presented with the award, sponsored by the Welsh Mule Sheep Breeders Association, at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair on Monday 30 November.
For more information about the Winter Fair, or to purchase tickets please visit the RWAS website.
