THERESA MAY has said she is aware of the importance of continued trade with Europe for Welsh farmers.

Mrs May toured the Royal Welsh Show Showground, at Llanelwedd, near Builth Wells, this morning before holding talks with representatives of both the NFU Cymru and FUW farmers unions and other bodies representing agriculture and the countryside.

The PM said she is aware of the importance of the EU market to farmers, who fear losing access or trade barriers when Britain leaves the EU, but also said Brexit will present opportunities to the agricultural sector.

She said: "Talking to people as I’ve gone around the show one of the clear messages I’ve had is the importance of being able to continue to trade well with Europe and the rest of the world."

Mrs May was also asked about future funding for farming after 2022, with the government having already promised to continue subsidy payments until that date.

A small crowd had gathered close to the president’s area on the showground where the Prime Minister met members of the press before departing shortly before midday.

Among those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Conservative Party leader was 71-year-old Chris Mitchell of Cardiff.

She said: "I heard on the news she was going to be here, I thought that’s good she’s here the same day as me. I hadn’t known she was going to be here until I heard it on the news this morning and the weather is gorgeous.

"I think she’s had a really hard time because anything and everything has been against her since the time she’s taken over. I just think she’s a tough lady and she will get there in the end, all the power to the women.

"She’s obviously come to reassure the farming community in Wales that everything is going to be alright.

"I came over the Brecon Beacons and I thought she would love to be hiking those mountains."

Sue Phillips and husband Mike, of Ffos Las, near Llanelli, spotted the PM as they were eating breakfast on the veranda of the Maldwyn Pavilion near the president’s area.

"She’s got a tough job," said 58-year-old Sue: "Whatever she does she can’t please all the people. It’s time for tough decisions and best to get on with it."

Husband Mike added: "As long as she gets us out (of the EU) that’s the main thing.

"She came by as we were having breakfast and was very pleasant to the people who stopped and spoke with here. She was very approachable."