Meet the finalists of the Community Spirit Award 2024. The judges have interviewed our finalists and will reveal the winner and runner up at the awards ceremony in November.
Broughton YFC hosts an annual Christmas bingo night for residents of Broughton and nearby villages, creating a major social event, especially for the older generation. In 2023, the event raised over £2,000, which was split between the club and the British Heart Foundation. The club also held a fundraiser in memory of former member Edward Gabberts, marking 10 years since his passing. Five members customised a RAV4 car, covered it with sponsor stickers, and pushed it over 17 miles, raising an impressive £14,227.99 for Furness & Duddon Mountain Rescue. Cheered on by the community, the event showcased the club’s strong ties to the area. In total, Broughton YFC raised over £16,000 for charity, demonstrating their dedication to both fundraising and their local community.
Caldbeck YFC is a key part of the rural community in the North Lake District and has made a significant impact by supporting local groups. They assisted with the Hesket Agricultural Show by setting up, stewarding, and managing parking, while also promoting farming. The club also raised over £6,400 last year, with more than half donated to local causes and charities, including £4,805 for the Great North Air Ambulance. Their Mother's Day afternoon tea, which raised £1,200, brought the community together and an Easter raffle raised money for a local hospice. Caldbeck YFC continues to be a pillar of the community, offering both financial and practical support locally.
Llangwyryfon YFC has been a cornerstone of the community, especially post-Covid, uniting people through bilingual activities. They’ve organised events like a Village Fun Day, community tidy-ups, and The Christmas Tree event where local children received gifts. Their carol singing raised £1,000 for the Welsh Air Ambulance, and they took over organising the village’s sheepdog trials. Additionally, members of the club have secured £17,000 in funding to save the village hall by installing solar power and upgrading the heating system. Through fundraising, community service, and promoting Welsh culture, Llangwyryfon YFC has significantly enhanced local life and brought people together.
Weald of Kent YFC had a busy year, starting with their involvement in the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match, where they managed tractor rides, terrier racing, and promoted YFC. Their biggest event was the "Light It Up" Tractor Run in December, featuring over 40 decorated tractors. The event attracted 15,000 spectators, raised £16,872, and donated £14,000 to the Air Ambulance. They also recycled Christmas trees to raise £400 for local food banks. Through events like the tractor run and quiz nights, Weald of Kent YFC has united the local farming community while supporting charities and promoting farming to the public.
Whittington & Oswestry YFC faced a tough year after losing their Chairman, Will Roberts, in December 2022. The club rallied together, organising several memorial events in his honour. In November 2023, they held a rugby match between past and present members, raising funds for a charity that supported Will. In the December, they hosted their first illuminated tractor run with over 80 tractors, which was a huge success. The club also runs the YFC tent at Oswestry Agricultural Show, including hosting competitions that the public are encouraged to get involved in too. Their community spirit and dedication to honouring Will’s memory are truly inspiring.