To mark 200 years of the Lewis family breeding Hereford cattle, HRH The Princess Royal visited the home farm of The Haven, Dilwyn, Herefordshire.

L-R: Edward Lewis, Princess Anne, Ben and Billy Lewis

On arrival at The Haven, HRH Princess Royal was received by The Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire who introduced local civic dignitaries.

She was then introduced to Edward Lewis who presented the Lewis family and escorted her to `The Loft`, a visitor’s room which has recently been renovated with the help of a Herefordshire Leader Council grant. Here, the Lewis family’s involvement in the breed was explained through a timeline and numerous historic photographs, many of which included other Royal Family members.

Princess Anne inspecting photographs in The Loft

After signing the visitors’ book The Princess Royal viewed cattle destined for the National Hereford Show before meeting the next generation of custodians of the family’s cattle breeding, Ben and Billy Lewis in the paddocks. Here, they discussed the future of Hereford breeding, including embryo work and the benefits of utilising paddock grazing and herbal leys in their systems.

L-R: Princess Anne, Paul Sneyd, Philip Allman and Carolyn Fletcher

The next stop for Her Royal Highness was to meet Philip Alman, chairman of the Hereford Cattle Society’s council, society president Carolyn Fletcher and director of operations Paul Sneyd. They outlined how the society works and is adapting to new trends in the beef market.

Princess Anne presented long service awards to Andrew Baugh, Mike Chandler and Mark Hooper

Finally, Her Royal Highness was invited to present long service awards to Mike Chandler, Mark Hooper and Andrew Baugh who accumulatively have worked for the Lewis family for over 146 years.

Edward Lewis said: “As a family, we were delighted to be able to welcome HRH The Princess Royal to The Haven and share our history and passion of Hereford cattle with her.”

Before leaving the farm, 91-year-old Nancy Wellings, who previously worked for the family, presented a posy to Her Royal Highness and while Carol Lewis presented a hamper of local Hereford produce.

Nancy Wellings presented a posy to Princess Anne