OVER the summer, Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFC) across the county have been showcasing what they do at local agricultural shows.

From Honiton to Okehampton, there are countless events over the summer months that provide opportunities for young farmers to promote their work and activities, as well as compete in competitions.

This month’s Devon YFC Club of the Month were responsible for the YFC marquee at this year’s North Devon Show – Braunton YFC.

It was Braunton Young Farmers’ turn to coordinate the YFC feature and the tent was packed with YFC cookery, floristry, photography, handicrafts and more.

They also carried out a Tug of War demonstration where current and past members were seen pulling a tractor across the main ring of the show.

Bethany Ansdell, Braunton YFC’s Club Secretary, says: “It’s always a lot of hard work to organise the tent at the show, but we were delighted to see the tent full of entries and so many North Devon members getting involved.

“It is so important for us to promote our eight clubs within North Devon group, so that the public know that we exist! What we do is vital in helping to combat the isolation associated with living and working in rural areas.

“It was great to see members of the public walking around the tent and asking how their children can sign up! Which is brilliant considering we are about to start a new YFC year.”

Although the club have recently been focusing on preparing for North Devon Show, throughout the year they have had a busy programme of activities.

They have held charity events such as their calving bingo and tractor run, as well as community events that include their Big Breakfast and their recent community litter pick along the Tarka Trail.

For Club Chairman Sam Zeale, a highlight of the year was their tractor run in memory of former Braunton YFC President Eric Nott. This was the club’s 6th annual tractor run and their largest to date, with 39 tractors taking part.

Sam Zeale, Braunton YFC Chairman, says: “I have had a hand in organising this event every year since Eric sadly passed away in 2018 and every year I am truly humbled that so many people support this event and keep Eric’s memory alive.

“Thank you to every single person involved in this year’s tractor tun, which raised £1,000 for charity. Whether you made a cake, drove a tractor, came out to local villages to wave us through or got held up in your car and waited patiently - thank you!”

If you’re aged 10 to 28, there are 37 YFC clubs across the county of Devon that are always happy to welcome new members. To join your local YFC club, take a look at the Devon YFC website – www.devonyfc.co.uk.