Everyone associated with Carmarthenshire Federation of Young Farmers Clubs is proud to be part of a network of over 25,000 members and 644 clubs - part of the National Federation covering England and Wales and, in itself, one of the largest rural youth organisations in the UK.

Led by young people, for young people for more than 80 years, the YFC’s provide anyone aged 10-26 with a fantastic chance to meet and make lifelong friends, learn new skills, make a real difference to the local community and even travel the world!

The strength of the movement in the county was again evident at the annual rally, held on a beautiful spring day last Saturday at the Nantyci Showground, when family and friends in their hundreds were present to support and encourage the members as they took part in a range of skill tests and fun competitions.

Chair of the federation, Gwawr Lewis, expressed her delight at the excellent standards achieved by so many members and was quite amused by some of the innovative ideas that had come to the fore when preparing to compete. She also had high praise for the many club leaders and trainers who had given up their time, often over a long period, in order that members would achieve their successes and to the various judges for their continuing invaluable contributions.

County YFC president John James was equally proud of the huge efforts and hard work that members were so willingly prepared to put into the competitions. Mr. James could also be praised for ensuring the future success of the movement as he was brought six of his grandchildren (future members?) along.

This year’s chosen federation ambassadors are Ffion Rees, Llanfynydd, and Hefin Evans, Capel Iwan, with their respective deputies, Ffion Gwen Davies, Llangadog, and Carys Thomas, Cwmann, whose task, over the coming year, will be to promote the YFC movement as widely as possible within the county.

A major effort by Llandovery club saw members take home both the senior and junior challenge shields, with Llanllwni claiming runners- up spot in the seniors and Penybont scored well for the juniors to secure second place.

The senior Member of the Year is Hefin Evans, with Aled Davies receiving the junior award.

The Stockmen competition saw Caryl Howells collect the senior cup and the Aled Howells Memorial Trophy, whilst Ifan Williams claimed the junior award.

Last year’s rally winners, Llangadog club, undertook all the stewarding during the day and Capel Iwan club members were on duty for the rally dance held at Brynawelon, Llanfynydd by kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Ian Thomas and family.

Officials: president, John James, president-elect, Arwyn Davies, chairman, Gwawr Lewis, Penybont, vice-chairman - Iestyn Davies, Capel Iwan, organising secretary, Eirios Thomas.