Bishop of Norwich appointed President of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association for 2026

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher,

has been appointed President of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) for 2026.

His induction took place during the RNAA’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 23 April, marking the start of a year that promises renewed energy, collaboration and celebration across Norfolk’s rural sectors.

As one of the UK’s most cherished county events, the Royal Norfolk Show continues to shine as the largest two‑day agricultural show, drawing more than 80,000 visitors annually and featuring over 700 trade stands and 3,000 animals. It remains a cornerstone of Norfolk’s cultural and farming heritage, bringing people together to learn, connect and enjoy.

Reflecting on his appointment, the Rt Revd Graham Usher shared “It was a great surprise to be asked to be this year’s President of the Royal Norfolk Show. It is a huge honour and I hope that I can fulfil the role to the very best of my ability.”

“The chance to celebrate our glorious countryside and farming heritage and learn more about how people can flourish in our rural communities across Norfolk, are things that I am looking forward to. As Show President, I want to showcase the role played by rural churches and community groups, and I have chosen to support Norfolk charities working with homeless people so that the most vulnerable in our communities can also begin to flourish.”

 “I am already tremendously impressed with the Show’s staff, judges and volunteers, and I hope many people will come and enjoy what promises to be a wonderful couple of days.”

The 2026 Royal Norfolk Show will take place on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June, offering an exciting programme of entertainment, livestock competitions, food, innovation and countryside experiences.

Mark Nicholas, Chief Executive Officer of the RNAA, welcomed Bishop Graham’s appointment and expressed gratitude to outgoing President Poul Hovesen for his exceptional contribution to last year’s Show:

“As the baton passes from Poul Hovesen to Bishop Graham we can be in no doubt that the Association is in a strong position to champion food production, farming and the countryside in Norfolk. A staunch supporter of our work since arriving in Norfolk in 2019 Bishop Graham’s vision will enable us to find innovative ways of supporting rural communities and growers and producers across the county. We thank Poul Hovesen for his hugely successful Presidential year and warmly welcome Bishop Graham as our President for 2026.”

2025 Show President Poul Hovesen with 2026 Show President Rt Revd Graham Usher and Bishops Award Winner Tom Ewin at RNS 2025.

Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter to hear the latest news from the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association.

Name