Radnor’s Gethin Lewis wins 2026 Dr Emrys Evans Award

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) is delighted to announce that Gethin Lewis of Glan Elan, Cwmdauddwr, Rhayader, has been named the winner of the 2026 Dr Emrys Evans Award.

This year marks 20 years since the award was first presented in 2006 in memory of the late Dr Emrys Evans, former Chairman of the Society’s Board of Directors. The award was established to recognise outstanding young talent in Welsh agriculture.

Each year, the award focuses on a different theme and this year it is presented to an individual under the age of 35 who is making a significant contribution and excelling in sheep shearing in Wales – an industry in which Wales continues to set world-leading standards.

Each of the Society’s county advisory committees is invited to nominate a candidate, and this year Radnor’s nominee will receive the award.

Judges Aled Wyn Davies and Gareth Jones praised both the calibre of candidates and the strength of the sector: “We met with ten outstanding candidates, each nominated by their county, and it was a privilege to hear their stories, ambitions and passion for the sheep shearing industry. Welsh shearing is among the best organised and most respected in the world.”

Following a rigorous judging process, the panel reached a unanimous decision. Gethin Lewis was recognised for his exceptional achievements at both national and international level, including winning the Champion Shearer of Wales title in 2023 and 2024 and representing Wales on numerous occasions.

In 2026, he became the first Welshman to win a First Grade Open Shearing competition at Taihape Shears in New Zealand. He also holds both the eight-hour Single Stand and Two Stand British Isles records, shearing an impressive 696 ewes.

Beyond competition, Gethin has made a significant contribution to the industry, establishing a shearing stand at home which now hosts the annual Cwmdauddwr Shears, supporting the development of future talent.

The judges described him as “an outstanding ambassador for sheep shearing, an exceptional role model for the next generation, and a thoroughly deserving recipient of this award.”

They also noted his commitment to the Welsh language and culture, highlighting its importance when representing the industry at home and abroad.

All 10 nominated candidates reflect the strength and depth of emerging talent within Welsh shearing, with each making a valuable contribution to the industry.

After being named the winner, Gethin Lewis said:

“I am very grateful to have been nominated to represent Radnor for this award and would like to thank the judges for selecting me as the winner. The Welsh shearing industry is currently in a very strong position, and we hope to build on this success and maintain that strength going forwards.”

Gethin Lewis will be presented with the Dr Emrys Evans Medal and Certificate on the first day of the Royal Welsh Show.

The Royal Welsh Show 2026 will take place from Monday 20 July to Thursday 23 July 2026 at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.

For tickets and further information, please visit www.rwas.wales.