A Lifetime of Service Recognised - Eirian Richards awarded RWAS Long Service Medal

Eirian Richards

We are delighted to share that our colleague Eirian Richards was today awarded the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) Long Service Medal - one of the Society's most respected honours, recognising individuals who have dedicated more than 40 years of service to agriculture and the rural industries in Wales.

Eirian's career began when he left school at just 16 years of age to join the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF), working first at Pwllpeiran before moving to Trawsgoed.

In 1984, he continued his work at Trawsgoed with NIAB, undertaking a wide range of agricultural research and field-based activities. During his time with NIAB, he also travelled to a number of research sites where he had the opportunity to work alongside experts in the field, broadening his knowledge and gaining valuable experience that would serve him throughout his career.

Eirian joined Aberystwyth University in 1997, spending almost three decades supporting farm and research operations across Penglais, Gogerddan, Trawsgoed and other University-managed farms.

Today, he continues his valued work as a Senior Field Technician at the Pwllpeiran Upland Research Centre, bringing a wealth of experience, knowledge and dedication to everything he does.

Over more than four decades, Eirian has made an outstanding contribution to agricultural research and the advancement of Welsh farming. His commitment, professionalism and practical knowledge have earned him the respect of colleagues across the industry.

Professor Iain Donnison, Head of IBERS, said:

“This prestigious award reflects Eirian’s long connection with Pwllpeiran, Trawsgoed and other research and extension farms of Aberystwyth University as well as his long commitment to Welsh agriculture and its farmed landscape. Eirian’s contributions have been important both to the operations of the experimental farms as well as their important work supporting rural livelihoods through grassland based farming. Our warmest congratulations as an institute on this well-deserved accolade.”

Professor Mariecia Fraser, Head of the Pwllpeiran Uplands Research Centre, said:

“Anyone who has had the pleasure of working with Eirian knows he is someone you never forget. Always ready with a story, a smile or a helping hand, he has become a familiar and much-valued presence to generations of colleagues. His experience, good humour and genuine love of his work have left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him. Congratulations, Eirian!”

RWAS Long Service Medal

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society Long Service Medal is one of the highest honours bestowed by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS), recognising a lifetime of exceptional dedication to the agricultural industry in Wales.

Awarded to individuals who have devoted more than 40 years of service to agriculture or a closely related profession, the medal celebrates unwavering commitment, loyalty, and outstanding contribution to the rural economy. Recipients over the years include farm workers, agricultural engineers, auctioneers, veterinary professionals, foresters, horticulturalists, and others whose work has helped sustain and develop Welsh agriculture over many decades.

Being selected for this honour is a mark of exceptional achievement, reflecting not only long service but also the esteem in which the recipient is held by their employer, colleagues, and the wider agricultural community. The award stands as a lasting tribute to a lifetime of dedication, professionalism, and service, recognising those whose commitment has made a significant and enduring contribution to the success and heritage of Welsh farming and rural life.

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