NEW co-designed Bovine TB strategy for England unveiled at Royal Three Counties Show amongst a Weekend of Lively Debate, Livestock and Equine Showing Excellence
Posted on: June 16th, 2026 · Posted in: All, Royal Three Counties Show
A landmark new co-designed Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) strategy for England has been unveiled at the Royal Three Counties Show this weekend, marking a significant step forward in the long-term fight to eradicate the disease and support farming communities.
Launched by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and developed through collaboration and input from over 100 groups including farmers, vets, members of the public, scientists and researchers, industry and member organisations including BCVA, BVA, NFU and government and APHA.
The discussion took place in the Show’s Future of Farming Theatre, the strategy brings with it five goals as recommendations, which are:
- Sustainable reduction in bovine TB in cattle across regions
- Making timely and effective decisions
- Innovation and learning by doing
- Building stronger partnerships
- Managing disease risk to cattle from other farmed species
Bovine TB remains one of the most complex and challenging animal health issues facing England, with far-reaching impacts on farmers’ livelihoods, animal welfare and rural communities.
The new strategy represents a co-ordinated, evidence-led approach to tackling the disease, reflecting the latest scientific research and industry insight.
The strategy continues the Government’s long-term ambition to achieve bovine TB-free status in England by 2038, recognising that tackling the disease will require sustained collective action.
A defining moment for UK agriculture
Speaking at the launch, DEFRA representatives highlighted the importance of partnership working in addressing a disease that has long divided opinion and challenged the sector.
The approach reflects a broader shift toward working collaboratively with industry and stakeholders, recognising that no single intervention can solve the issue alone and that progress depends on bringing together multiple, complementary measures.
Future of Farming Theatre – at the heart of the conversation
The launch underscores the Royal Three Counties Show’s position as a leading platform for national agricultural debate, innovation and policy discussion with the Future of Farming Theatre as its hub.
Held at Three Counties Showground in Malvern, the Show brings together farmers, policymakers, industry leaders and the public to explore the future of British agriculture.
The Future of Farming Theatre, sponsored by Farmers Guardian and Virgin Money, offers a wealth of opportunities for farmers and land professionals looking to further their knowledge via engaging panel discussions, networking sessions and expert insights.
2026’s line-up of special guests delivering talks and joining discussions on stage will include Baroness Minette Batters, Kaleb Cooper, Ally Hunter Blair, Kelvin and Liz Fletcher and Adam Henson.
Celebrating excellence in Livestock and Equine competition
Alongside major national policy announcements, the Royal Three Counties Show continues to showcase the very best of British farming through its prestigious livestock and equine competitions.
Across the three days of the Show, top breeders, producers and riders from across the UK compete for coveted titles, highlighting the quality, care and expertise that underpin the sector.
This year’s standout results include:
- Champion of Champions (Grand Parade – Saturday): Black Aberdeen Angus 157 – BLELACK PRINCESS CARINA X125 Exhibited By Mr & Mrs M Alford
- Interbreed Sheep Champion: 1286 Zwartbles Shearling Ewe exhibited by Mr Peter Addison
- Interbreed Pig Champion: Addison Golden Harvest 4, Large Black Sow, owned, breed and exhibited by Mr Jack Holroyd
- Interbreed Beef Champion: Black Aberdeen Angus. BLELACK PRINCESS CARINA X125 Exhibited By Mr & Mrs M Alford
- Interbreed Dual Purpose Champion: Pinguis Michael, Red Poll Bull exhibited, owned and bred by Mr J.R Williams
- Champion Beef Group of Three: Aberdeen Angus Group exhibited Mr & Mrs Alford
- Interbreed Dairy Champion: Jubilee Perfect Ceres, Jersey Heifer, owned, bred and exhibited by JR & CA Daw & IH Ward (Thompson)
These competitions remain a cornerstone of the Show, celebrating excellence while reinforcing the importance of high standards in animal health, welfare and breeding – themes closely aligned with the future-focused discussions taking place across the event.
Three Counties Head of Shows, Jane Edwards, said “Royal Three Counties Show is proud to provide a platform where the most important conversations shaping the future of British agriculture can take place. From major policy announcements like the co-designed Bovine TB strategy to the very best in livestock and equine competition, the Show brings together industry, government and the public in a way that is both meaningful and impactful.
Supporting collaboration, celebrating excellence and championing our rural community sits at the heart of everything we do.”
Images from the Royal Three Counties Show 2026 are available here : https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/b8rx61mjwxem5idd7e5xm/AF5AOBRRxt80xd6z63WFmmU?rlkey=gp50e0khd09rrvo7pq1acdyav&st=tx3j331e&dl=0
