The South of England Agricultural Society is delighted to announce Charles Burgoyne as its new President for 2026. Charles is a well-known and long-standing supporter of the Society, having volunteered for more than 25 years, serving as trustee from 2013 to 2025 and chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2016.
A farmer by background, Charles manages a beef, arable and formerly dairy farm, and a business park in Wivelsfield, Mid Sussex – land that has been in his family for four generations. He also manages the 600-cow dairy operation next door at Heaselands Estate near Haywards Heath, selling milk to Sainbury’s. Charles is also a former chairman of the 1000 Cow Club and currently serves as chairman of the Sainsbury’s Dairy Development Group representing 150 farmers nationwide who supply all the supermarket’s milk.
During his time as chairman of the South of England Agricultural Society, Charles played a key role in significantly increasing the income of the South of England Event Centre (which is owned by the Society) and guiding the charity through the Covid-19 pandemic, thus ensuring its continued success. He also oversaw several important milestones in the Society’s history, including multiple Royal visits, the appointment of a new Royal Patron and the Society’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Charles has four children, all of whom have helped at Society events over the years, with his daughter Imogen Burgoyne now sitting on the education committee.
Commenting on his appointment, Charles said:
“I am honoured to be selected as President of the South of England Agricultural Society for 2026. Having worked closely with the Society for many years and seen first-hand the important work it does, I look forward to meeting exhibitors, competitors and trade stands at our shows this year and continuing to champion the agricultural industry.”
As part of his presidency, Charles has chosen the East Sussex Farmers’ Benevolent Fund as his Charity of the Year.
Founded in 1935 by a local farmer, the fund provides financial support to farmers, their dependents, and those working across the wider land-based industries. Support can include one-off grants for equipment, business support, longer-term help following illness or accidents, assistance with mental health, and funding for those entering land-based education or undertaking further qualifications.
Speaking about his chosen charity, Charles added:
“The East Sussex Farmers’ Benevolent Fund does an incredible job supporting our farmers with everything from financial assistance to purchase machinery and equipment, to help with funeral costs. I’m very glad to be able to help them reach even more individuals and families in need.”
John Robinson, Chairman of the East Sussex Farmers Benevolent Fund, added:
“The East Sussex Farmers Benevolent Fund is honoured to be chosen as the South of England Agricultural Society’s Charity of the Year for 2026. The fund has been in existence for over 90 years, helping farmers and farm staff who need financial help or advice, including those in agricultural education starting their careers, and all in the wider land-based industries who might need help. Because we are locally based, we can very quickly support people if we are made aware of any need”
Throughout the year, the South of England Agricultural Society will support the charity by raising awareness across its network of members, supporters and show visitors. The fund will also have opportunities to raise money at events, including the South of England Show, taking place 5–7 June 2026.
The Society has also appointed Jenny Flake as Deputy President for 2026. Jenny’s family has farmed on the South Downs at Coombe Farm since 1901, with the farm welcoming school visits since 1979. She has a long association with the Society and currently serves on the cattle committee and volunteers as a cattle steward. For more information about the South of England Agricultural Society, please visit www.seas.org.uk.