The King Visits Clitheroe Auction Mart: A Proud Day for Our Farming Community

The King Visits Clitheroe Auction Mart: A Proud Day for Our Farming Community

His Majesty King Charles III paid a special visit to Clitheroe Auction Mart today, drawing a packed crowd from across the local farming community for a morning that celebrated the people, places, and partnerships at the heart of local agriculture.

A family moment for the Dugdales

We were honoured that our very own Roger Dugdale and daughter, Marketing & Communications Director, Hannah Dugdale, were invited to attend the event – an occasion that brought together generations of farming experience with a shared commitment to rural wellbeing and resilience.

Field Nurse: championing rural health where it matters

Alongside his longstanding contribution to the Dugdale family business, Roger Dugdale is a founder and trustee of Field Nurse – a charity employing experienced registered nurses who run drop-in sessions at livestock auction marts. By meeting farmers where they already gather, Field Nurse supports both mental and physical health in rural communities, offering confidential advice, early signposting, and practical help for the everyday pressures of life and work in agriculture.

The King’s visit underlined just how vital these services are. In fact, Field Nurse received a special mention in His Majesty’s speech – an acknowledgement that means a great deal to the volunteers, the nurses, trustees, and the many farmers who value the charity’s presence week in, week out.

A conversation with the countryside

Throughout the morning The King met with a broad cross-section of the agricultural community: members of Young Farmers Clubs, representatives of breed societies (including some of our own customers), rural police officers, and organisers of rural and agricultural shows from across the region. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with conversations ranging from herd health and genetics to the next generation stepping into agriculture.

With the main ring filled to the rafters, the local farming community watched as The King unveiled a plaque and delivered remarks recognising the dedication and contribution of farmers – remarks that resonated deeply with everyone present.

“I promise I know only too well how vital the farming sector is to this country. I founded the Countryside Fund almost 20 years ago, and I hope it is contributing to some degree to the welfare and adaptability of farmers and to the challenges and complications you have to meet. I have some appreciation for what you put up with and thank God for marts like this and all the people associated with it.”

Those words, delivered from the heart of the auction ring, spoke directly to the realities our community faces – from economic uncertainty to the everyday resilience required to care for stock, land, and livelihoods. The special mention for Field Nurse within the speech was a proud moment for everyone involved in the charity’s work.

Pride, partnership, and a few photos for the album

Days like this don’t happen often, and they’re shaped by the quiet teamwork of people who believe in the value of markets like Clitheroe. We’re grateful to friends and customers who shared photographs from the day—capturing a unique blend of tradition, service, and community spirit that defines our region.

A feast at CAM Café

Following The King’s departure, guests were treated to an incredible buffet lunch in the Clitheroe Auction “CAM Café.” Run by a talented husband-and-wife-and-daughter team, the spread was as generous as the welcome: a delicious array of sandwiches, pies, sausage rolls, wraps, flan and tray bakes—the perfect finish to a memorable community occasion.

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