Kentish Express Ashford & District
Young farmers’ club top of the crop
Young farmers have been present ed with top awards after beating competition from around the county.
The South Willesborough and Newtown Young Farmers Club went to the awards for the Kent Federation of Young Farmers Clubs and the Kent County Agricultural Society (KCAS) awards last month.
Connor Hardwick, 16, was presented with the Lady Astor Award by Lucy Hegarty from KCAS, and will put the £250 prize towards his training at Hadlow College.
Meanwhile, the club’s chairman Megan Clifford, 20, was presented with the Hoosen Award, and a cheque for £500, which she will put towards the cost of studying on the artificial insemination course which will help her achieve her dream job in agriculture.
The club also took home the Barclays Bank Trophy which was presented by federation president Claire Eckley.
James Manvell was also recognised for being the most promising young farmer at the club.
Club spokesman Kevin Bailey said: “We won the trophy for the first time, beating all other young farmers clubs in Kent.
“The trophy is given to the highest achieving club in the county each year, and covers all aspects of farming, from showing animals in competitions to arts and crafts.
“Several of our members competed in regional and national finals for the first time and achieved commendable results.”
Mr Bailey said the club has seen an incredible transformation, because in 2014 they were down to just six members, but three years on they now have 50.
The club welcomes anyone interested in farming from the age of 10 to 26, and also welcomes help from volunteers.
They are now fundraising for a new portable clubhouse. For more information visit www.swanfarmyfc.co.uk