Royal honour for show stalwarts and 'Norfolk Legends'

Farm community leaders and tireless show stewards were hailed as "Norfolk Legends" during a special celebration with the Duke of Edinburgh at the Royal Norfolk Show.

Prince Edward presented a series of awards to recognise exceptional contributions to the show, and to the agricultural industry.

They included the Timothy Colman Prize, the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association's (RNAA's) top annual award for promoting and developing the county's food, farming and the countryside.

It was presented to Bob King, for his "outstanding contribution to developing and promoting malting barley and establishing a network of growers' groups". Mr King retired as commercial director of Crisp Malt in Great Ryburgh, near Fakenham, last year after a 35-year career.

There were also awards to honour long-serving Fellows of the Royal Norfolk Show.

The Duke of Edinburgh presenting an RNAA Fellowship award to Howard Zelley at the 2024 Royal Norfolk Show (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Among them were Howard Zelley, who has managed the show's presentation trophies for 30 years.

"His knowledge and passion for the RNAA silverware is second to none, and Howard is always happy to share his in-depth knowledge," said the RNAA.

"Weeks prior to each show the process of retrieving, cleaning, repairing and prepping the trophies began in the Zelley family premises in Norwich to ensure all cups were ready for dispatch across the show, on time and looking immaculate."

The Duke of Edinburgh presenting RNAA Fellowship awards to Roger and Yvonne Long at the 2024 Royal Norfolk Show (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Other fellowship winners were Roger Long and his wife Yvonne, from Scarning near Dereham, who have been part of the show stewarding team for a combined total of 70 years.

The RNAA said: "Roger's knowledge of cattle with regards to the quality of the animal and related diseases is unrivalled.
"He is renowned for picking only the finest cattle judges for the Royal Norfolk Show. Roger has judged at shows throughout the country and is respected by both exhibitors, handlers and breeders alike."

"Yvonne has carried out the role of running the cattle commentary box and ensuring not only that the cattle passports and movement records are in order but has provided customer service and hospitality to hundreds of cattle exhibitors, judges and their guests."

Mr Long said it was a "great honour" to receive the award from the Duke of Edinburgh, adding: "I have always been a great admirer, so to have him here to present the award is tremendous.

"I have done 51 years as a steward here, so it seems a fitting tribute, especially having my wife beside me who has been a steward for 20 years."

The Duke of Edinburgh presenting an RNAA Fellowship award to Gp Capt Stewart Blackburn at the 2024 Royal Norfolk Show (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Group Captain Stewart Blackburn was also appointed a Royal Norfolk Show Fellow following 15 years of "distinguished voluntary service" leading the RNAA's liaison with the Royal British Legion and veterans' community.

During this time, he has been responsible for coordinating the veterans marchpast at the
show, and he has been an "instrumental figure" with the Veterans Norfolk Group, as well as a Deputy Lieutenant of Norfolk.

The Duke of Edinburgh presenting an RNAA Fellowship award to Mike Curtis at the 2024 Royal Norfolk Show (Image: Sonya Duncan)

And another fellowship award was presented to Mike Curtis, a vintage tractor enthusiast described as a "reliable, patient, driving force behind the Starting Handle Club who is dedicated to showcasing the machinery and passing on his knowledge to interested crowds."

As part of a wider team, he organises events across the county with "huge passion and enthusiasm", including at the Royal Norfolk Show.