On Friday 6th March, Mr David Cunningham from Newtownards was elected as the 38th President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS).
David’s active involvement with the charity dates back over 50 years and his family heritage is deeply rooted in the Society’s proud history.
He joined the RUAS as a life member in 1963 and was elected on to Council in the year 2000. David has lent his expertise to many committees over the years, including the Horse Committee and Show Jumping Sub Committee, as well as the Show Safety Committee where he acted as Chairman during the historical move from the King’s Hall.
For many, David is a face synonymous with the Main Arena at the Balmoral Show where he began volunteering as a steward in 1977 before adopting the role of Chief Steward in 2002. He has also undertaken stewarding roles through the Show Safety committee volunteering at the Society’s two other flagship events; the Royal Ulster Winter Fair and in more recent years, the Royal Ulster Premier Beef & Lamb Championships.
Upon election at the RUAS Annual Meeting, David is the first third-generation president within the Society following in the proud footsteps of his grandfather, Lt Col James G Cunningham OBE VL and his late father, Roly Cunningham.
Originally hailing from Killyleagh in County Down, David grew up on the family farm where his passion for agriculture and rural life flourished. From his young memories of their pedigree Salers cattle to his more recent involvement in the equestrian world through ridding clubs, hunter trials and the Irish Long Distance Riding Association, David has always lent a hand where he can. The Cunnigham family farm may have relocated, but their commitment to showing their prized Lleyn sheep remains strong today with David’s mother Fiona one of the Balmoral Show’s eldest exhibitors having celebrated her 90th birthday several years ago.
Beyond the showing world, David has also volunteered through the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) as he worked in his family’s printing business before moving on to focusing on web design within the IT sector.
Commenting on his appointment, David remarked, “It is a great honour and privilege to be elected President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society.
“I have been actively involved with and supported the Society for almost 50 years, and my family connection stretches back even further. I am particularly honoured to become the Society’s first third-generation President, and my son now stewards at the Show each year, making it six generations of involvement.
“I have greatly valued the past two years serving as Deputy to John Henning, and I would like to thank John and his wife Ann for their dedication and hard work within the RUAS, particularly during his presidency.
“I look forward to working with the membership, Council and staff as we continue to develop and strengthen the Society for the future. While I will miss the Main Arena, I am excited to meet many friends and colleagues — and many new faces — at the 157th Balmoral Show at the Eikon Exhibition Centre this May.”
