A LLYN ‘plough king’ is looking to raise £20,000 to compete for Wales on the international stage later this year.

Hugh Griffith from Rhydyclafdy, has qualified to represent Wales in the World Ploughing Championships in the USA in August, but needs to raise near to £20,000 in order to take his ploughs across the pond.

Around 35 countries will compete at the international competition and Hugh explained, to stand the best chance, he needs to take his own New Holland TS115 tractor and two ploughs shipped to the rural Minnesota on the Canadian border.

He describes it as being like a golfer and their clubs, adding: “You spend aged working with your equipment and getting it just right. We have looked into hiring tractors out there, but there isn’t much choice.”

The cost of shipping his equipment has varied between £13,000 and £18,000, but haulage on the other side is also a big consideration for Hugh, as Baudette in Minnesota is for from the nearest dock.

“Realistically, we would need to send the equipment off in June as it will take around a month or two to get there by sea. Ideally I am looking for sponsorship to help me get out there and stand a chance against the world’s best,” Hugh said.

The Welsh Ploughing Association has said it will contribute 30 per cent towards transport costs. It’s a big help but it still leaves Hugh with a lot to find.

Hugh started ploughing competitively in 2007 and gained his ticket to the world championships following success in the nationals.

Hugh took part in the European Championships in Ireland a few weeks back but mechanical troubles thwarted his chances during the competition.

To sponsor Hugh, contact him on [email protected] or 07889 929639.