Innovations in agriculture and engineering are at the heart of the Harper Adams University stand at this year’s Newport Show.
Among the items on display at the show – which is returning after two years – will be the chance to take part in a virtual experience of the internationally renowned Hands Free Fam and the opportunity to see a specially-designed beacon lit to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
The beacon was lit by current Newport and District Agricultural Society President Neil Furniss at a ceremony at the start of this year’s four-day Platinum Jubilee Weekend. The ceremony took place on high ground at the Chetwynd Deer Park, which houses the showground for the Newport Show.
Harper Adams University Shows and Events Officer Sarah Swinnerton said: “It has been great getting out to more shows and events this summer as so many return after the last two years – but the return of our ‘home’ show, the Newport Show, is particularly special.
“Visitors to our stand will be able to see the Jubilee Beacon which was lit in the park grounds in June to mark the Platinum Jubilee, and to find out more about how our Engineering students and staff helped design it.
“They can take part in a virtual Hands Free Farm Experience and see some of the autonomous machinery which is used on the internationally-known farm – which is just down the round from the showground.”
Other innovations on display will include some of the latest – and largest – agricultural drones and a demonstration of the Auto Spray Systems Ground Rover.
There will also be a chance to find out more about how lazers can be used to weed – and for visitors to the stand to try their hand themselves with an interactive activity.
Sarah added: “There are all kinds of different activities and displays to enjoy and take part in – plus, of course, the chance to find out more about our courses, research and the work we do right here in Shropshire.
“Come and find out more about our School of Sustainable Food and Farming and how we are working with leading industry partners to help drive agricultural innovation, our placements – and the wealth of opportunities they offer our students – and even how we’ve been helping with the preparations for a cycling world record through our student research.
“It’s great to see the Newport Show returning – and we can’t wait to welcome you there!”
