A Welsh farmer who survived a shocking heart disease diagnosis requiring triple bypass surgery and subsequently won the 2026 series of Britain's Got Talent is urging fellow farmers to prioritize their physical and mental health.
From Farming to Fame
Hugh Thomas, 75, who has run a sunflower farm in Pembrokeshire with his wife Rachel since 1981, joined the Hawkstone Farmers' Choir assembled by Jeremy Clarkson in April 2025 after recovering from his diagnosis. The 34-member choir won the live final on May 30, earning a £250,000 prize and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
Simon Cowell praised their performance as "absolutely stunning," "heartfelt," and "joyous."
A Shocking Diagnosis
In February 2022, Thomas experienced breathlessness during exertion, initially attributed to long Covid. However, his wife Rachel insisted he seek further medical advice. An angiogram at Prince Philip Hospital revealed arterial blockages, leading to a transfer to Morriston Hospital for triple bypass surgery.
"Obviously that was quite a shock," Thomas said. "I had no pain, just a little short of breath." The consultant warned that a heart attack would be fatal without surgery.
Thomas underwent surgery three weeks later, spending six days in intensive care. Due to Covid restrictions, Rachel could not visit, and the farm's distance from the hospital added to her anxiety.
Recovery and the Choir
Thomas made a steady recovery, now requiring only yearly check-ups. In April 2025, he answered Clarkson's call for singing farmers, submitting an audition video filmed on his farm. He was selected from over 500 candidates for the choir, which aimed to support farmers' mental wellbeing and promote Clarkson's beer.
The choir's Britain's Got Talent journey began with a Golden Buzzer in October 2025, culminating in their victory. Choir member Katryna Shell dedicated the win to farmers, urging them to speak up about struggles.
Encouraging Farmers to Seek Help
A Healthwatch study found 40% of farmers struggle to schedule doctor's appointments around farm work, and one in five dislike asking for help. Thomas admitted he previously held similar views. "Farmers generally hold back," he said. "They tend to leave it."
Rachel added: "Most farmers would put off going to the doctor unless their arm was hanging off. There's a lot of that in this industry."
Thomas hopes his story inspires others to prioritize health. "We don't know what's in the pipeline, but I think there's a lot of exciting things going to happen now," he said.
