DEFYING THE ODDS
Young farmers bounce back from the edge of disaster
ERYRI’S young farmers say they have not only survived a year without grants, the county federation is thriving.
Members from all 11 clubs in Eryri gathered for the county AGM at Caernarfon Golf Club to reflect on the year’s progress.
Miriam Williams, retiring chairman, said the county had re-booted itself after the loss of funding from Gwynedd Council’s Youth Services budget, which had also affected Meirionnydd YFC.
“It’s been a different 12 months,” said Miriam.
“We have survived a year without a Gwynedd Council grant, and indeed we seem to be going from strength to strength.
“Hopefully this will be the case for years to come.”
On the night awards were presented to members and a series of elections were held to appoint new county officials.
Beca Glyn of Ysbyty Ifan YFC, was elected chairman, while Ann Williams, of Bryn Meirion, Llithfaen, will succeed outgoing president Allen Wynne Owen.
New vice-chair is Meinir Owen of Llangybi YFC, with Geraint Roberts, of Trefriw YFC, as vice-president.
Overseeing the accounts will be treasurer Elin Jones of Godre’r Eifl YFC, aided by deputy Glesni Jones of Dyffryn Nantlle YFC.
Two loyal stalwarts were also elected life members. Myfanwy Harper of Ty Newydd, Llandegai, and Nesta Griffiths of Henblas, Llanwnda, were recognised for their long support both at county and club level.
Trophies went to all parts of the county. Ifan Prys of Dyffryn Nantlle YFC collected the Junior Stockman Cup, with the Senior trophy going to Mari Roberts, of Ysbyty Ifan YFC.
Y Rhiw YFC took home the Hafod y Llan Trophy for the biggest increase in membership.
The year’s most successful club was Ysbyty Ifan YFC, which won the Catherine Rhian Trophy after amassing the most competition points.
Best of the smaller clubs was Caernarfon YFC.