Yorkshire Federation of Young Farmers marks 50th anniversary

The Yorkshire Federation was formed from the amalgamation of the North and West Yorkshire Ridings following local government reorganisation. The first officeholders of the new Yorkshire Federation were elected in 1974.

A celebration dinner dance is just one of the events planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary. It has been organised for Saturday, April 6 at York Racecourse. Tickets are available in advance from the County Office on 01423 546170.

Kirsty Chapple, current county chairman, said: “We are hoping as many past and present members and supporters of the movement will join us to celebrate.

"Unfortunately we have lost touch with some previous officeholders and would ask anyone interested in joining us to get in touch.”

The Yorkshire Federation currently has 1,300 members aged ten to 28-years-old who are spread across 45 clubs covering North, South and West Yorkshire. The Yorkshire Federation is one of the largest in the country.

The organisation has evolved over the last 50 years, however many of the traditional activities such as stock judging and public speaking remain very popular, with strong competition between clubs and members.

The traditional rally day is still fiercely competitive. It sees members from the 45 clubs compete against each other in more than 60 competitive classes with a very high standard.

Kirsty added: “Young Farmers gives young people the opportunity to learn new skills and develop personally in a fun environment, this part of YFC has not changed in the last 50 years.

"We hope that the anniversary dinner will allow people to catch up with old friends whilst reminiscing about YFC days.”

For more information, see yfyfc.org.uk, email office@yfyfc.org.uk or call 01423 546170.