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YFC Achiever Awards 2025

Meet the 2024 Achiever Award Finalists

Join the celebrations on Saturday 2 November, 2024 at the National Conference Centre, Birmingham. Tickets released on Monday 19 August 2024.

Young Farmer of the Year Finalists 2024

Megan

North School, Kent

Megan dedicates her free time to helping on her school’s farm and is an active member of North School YFC. She participated in Living Land, where she taught schoolchildren about the significance of farming and inspired them to consider careers in the industry. Additionally, she has visited various farms, including a robotic dairy farm, to learn about different agricultural practices. At the Kent County Show, Megan has honed her skills in preparing and showing livestock. Currently studying Animal Care, she aspires to become a farm vet and dreams of owning her own smallholding. Megan also prioritises farm safety, ensuring younger children at her school are well-informed.

Megan

Hector Meanwell

Eden Valley, Cumbria

Hector manages a hill farm in Penrith for the Ernest Cook Trust and is passionate about education and promoting British farming. He invites young people, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and young offender units, to learn about rural practices and where food comes from. He writes a farming supplement for the local Herald, sharing insights on his farm activities. Hector takes part in NFYFC’s Farm Safety Skills competition and has assisted with tractor and ATV training on the farm. He started breeding native breeds five years ago and plans to open a farm shop to sell meat direct to the public. With a strong commitment to education and regenerative farming, Hector embodies the spirit of British farming.

Hector Meanwell

Robbie Tuer

Raughton Head, Cumbria

Robbie is a passionate advocate for British food and farming, engaging with various stakeholders, including political leaders. As an account manager at Aspatria Farmers, he supports 300 clients with best farming practices. Robbie has actively participated in the NFU conference, and is vice-chair of NFYFC’s YFC AGRI Steering Group. He completed NFYFC’s Train the Trainer course so he could deliver essential agricultural workshops, such as Farm Safety and Minding Your Head. Despite not coming from a farming background, Robbie has successfully built a career in agriculture, becoming a respected figure in Cumbria’s farming community and promoting the importance of supporting British agriculture.

Robbie Tuer

Hannah Rees

Llysfran YFC, Pembrokeshire

Hannah promotes British food and farming through agronomy and consultancy, recommending nutrient management plans that meet legislation. As a regional champion for The DPJ Foundation and an ambassador for farm safety, she uses her mental health training to support farmers under increasing pressure. She has conducted mental health first aid training and her dissertation was focused on mental health in agriculture, highlighting the link between poor mental health and farm safety. Hannah aspires to one day secure a Nuffield scholarship to study mental health in UK agriculture compared with New Zealand.

Hannah Rees

Sian Grove

Isle of Wight, Hampshire

Sian joined her YFC without any background in farming and has gone on to hold roles in her club and started her own farming enterprise from scratch. As a first-generation shepherdess with 18 sheep, Sian uses social media to inspire others to get involved in farming. She supports The Farm Safety Foundation’s Mind Your Head campaign and is an NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador, advocating for agriculture and education. Sian is also Secretary for the Royal Isle of Wight County Show, where she enjoys bridging the gap between the public and the farming community. This year, Sian has actively engaged with schools to promote YFC and agricultural careers, even bringing lambs to show the children.

Sian Grove

Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists 2024

Alicia Showering

Comberton YFC, Cambridgeshire

BugBiome

Alicia is the CEO and co-founder of BugBiome, a company focused on discovering biopesticides from the crop microbiome. She has assembled a scientific team to capture and screen microbes from crops for new crop protectants, specifically targeting aphids in oilseed rape and sugar beet. With support from NIAB they will progress from discovery to field trials in the next year. Alicia pivoted from human pest solutions to agriculture, raising over £1,000,000 in funding through a combination of private equity and grants. BugBiome actively engages with farmers and agronomists on the role of biopesticides in integrated crop management that is more sustainable for people and the planet.

Alicia Showering

Cecile Clark

Kent Estuary YFC, Cumbria

Little Miss Social Media

Cecile owns a social media marketing company, Little Miss Social Media, which she launched in 2023 when she was 19 years old. With a growing following across social media platforms, Cecile supports up to 14 clients across various industries, including agriculture and food services. She has also boosted her club’s social media presence, helping attract new members. With plans to one day offer apprenticeships to the rural community, Cecile is passionate about supporting local businesses and promoting the community where she lives.

Cecile Clark

Hannah Davies

Netherseal YFC, Leicestershire & Rutland

The British Food Box

Hannah co-founded the British Food Box eight years ago, a dairy wholesale and cheese events business generating £1.35 million annually. They employ six full-time staff and around 25 part-time event staff. The wholesale division sources dairy from small producers, supplying over 140 retailers and the food service sector across six counties. The business sells artisan cheeses at more than 250 food festivals and county shows yearly. During the pandemic, Hannah adapted the business to offer home deliveries, reaching over 1,000 households. Hannah is committed to supporting smaller producers and expanding the events business.

Hannah Davies

Katie Waine

Grayrigg YFC, Cumbria

The Dirty Dog Kendal

Katie owns The Dirty Dog, a dog grooming business in Kendal. After working at a local auction mart, she pursued her dream of dog grooming, starting with just the basics in her spare room. Building her client base from scratch while working long hours, she has successfully transitioned to full-time grooming. Katie donates vouchers to local charity raffles and sponsors YFC events, always seeking innovative ways to boost income, like selling treats and doggie perfume. She now boasts five-star reviews and requires additional support due to the success of the business.

Katie Waine

Maddy Knowles

Helston & St Keverne, Cornwall

Trink Dairy

Maddy has been instrumental in helping her family’s dairy farm diversify by introducing a 24-hour milk and milkshake vending machine. Trink Dairy has gained popularity among locals, school groups, and tourists – even getting a surprise visit from Dua Lipa and Michael Barrymore! Before investing in the kit, Maddy created a DIY milkshake bar to conduct her own market research and has since brought a vending machine trailer and more recently introduced Trink Natural Yoghurt. Through hosting YFC visits and educating local schools about dairy production, she has fostered community engagement, promoting sustainability by encouraging the reuse of glass bottles and showcasing career opportunities in agriculture.

Maddy Knowles

Aspiring Rural Leader Finalists 2024

Abigail Graham

Walton YFC, Cumbria

Abigail has held several key leadership roles in YFC and is currently Northern Area Field Day Chair for 2025. As Club Treasurer since 2014, she helped her club recover from debt and continues to ensure financial stability. Abigail successfully led Cumbria YFC’s Northern District, introducing new fundraisers and engaging all clubs, including a district calendar and charity challenge in the Sahara Desert. Her calm yet strong leadership style has earned her widespread trust and admiration. Abigail’s dedication across multiple levels of YFC showcases her ability to lead others and the lasting impact she has made.

Abigail Graham

Leah Bevan

Gower YFC, Glamorgan

Despite stepping down as Club Chair Leah has remained a dedicated leader, mentoring young officers and supporting the club’s growth. As Programme Officer, she helped plan engaging, low-cost activities for members of all ages, ensuring everyone was included. Leah has supported younger members, providing guidance and identifying those needing extra help. She has driven community involvement, organising events like the club’s Christmas dinner and a fundraising whist drive. Leah promotes YFC’s values by encouraging participation in county competitions and charity work, raising money for Cancer Research in the process. Her leadership, approachability, and commitment to Gower YFC make her a respected role model.

Leah Bevan

Luke Brignall

Bainton YFC, East Riding of Yorkshire

Luke is the County's Designated Welfare and Safeguarding Officer (DWSO) and County Chair. Through training and collaboration, he implemented key initiatives like tailored training evenings, and a YFC app for members and parents, which strengthened communication between clubs and parents. Luke supported junior clubs with growth and created a roadmap for the county team that focused on safeguarding and relationship-building. By developing resources and providing ongoing guidance, he has helped foster a supportive, inclusive environment, ensuring YFC remains a safe and thriving community for all members.

Luke Brignall

Max Porter

Brown Clee YFC, Shropshire

Max, as County Chair of Shropshire YFC (2023-24), has been an inspiring and level-headed leader. He represented the County at national events, organised key county competitions, and led his own Chair's events. Max played a vital role in recruiting new staff, including the County Organiser. He successfully led club officer training, ensuring safeguarding compliance across clubs. Notably, he organised an Illuminated Tractor Run in Shrewsbury, raising £4,000 for charity. Max is approachable, supportive, and has been instrumental in guiding Shropshire through post-Covid growth, providing leadership and encouragement to both club officers and members.

Max Porter

Tom Harrison

Lichfield YFC, Staffordshire

When Lichfield YFC’s leadership stepped down mid-membership year, Tom stepped up to co-chair the club, ensuring it didn't shut down. Under his leadership, membership doubled within eight months, thanks to his enthusiasm and dedication. He organised key events like the club's first Dyno Day, raising funds and boosting publicity. Tom’s leadership also helped Lichfield achieve second place in the Staffordshire County Show Float Competition for the first time. At just 17, while working full-time, Tom showed remarkable initiative and dedication, driving young members to events and ensuring everyone felt welcome and included.

Tom Harrison

Club of the Year Finalists 2024

Ashford and District YFC, Kent

Ashford and District YFC

Ashford YFC started the year with 25 members and has since grown to 57, thanks to events like their Live Nativity, Christmas tree collection, and Kent’s biggest YFC ball, raising £1,500 for FCN. They host a variety of activities, from farm walks to line dancing, lambing days, and training events. The club is active on social media, promoting events and engaging the community, leading to a waiting list for junior members. With strong safeguarding practices and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, Ashford YFC supports both its members and the rural community through education, charity work, and social events.

Downham Market YFC, Norfolk

Downham Market YFC

Downham Market YFC has grown from 30 to 55 members this year, exceeding its target by 20 through strong promotion and engaging events. The club supported two charities, raising £6,000 through a quiz night, tractor run, clay shoot, and dinner dance. They actively participate in county competitions, with members advancing to Eastern Area for junior stock judging. The club offers a diverse programme, including farm tours, go-karting, and educational talks, catering to both farming and non-farming members. With strong communication and safeguarding practices, Downham Market YFC fosters a welcoming, supportive environment for all members.

Furness YFC, Cumbria

Furness YFC

This year, Furness YFC focused on community engagement, completing projects like a garden makeover for a respite care centre and raising £1,000 for a local hospice. Their small team of senior officers has encouraged their younger members to become more confident by taking on significant roles. The club created an engaging and varied programme with farm visits, stockjudging, guest speakers, and workshops such as floral art and pizza making. With a growing membership, they host fundraisers, like bingo and breakfast events, and actively recruit new members through social media and local shows. The club emphasises inclusivity, ensuring everyone can get involved in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Raughton Head, Cumbria

Raughton Head, Cumbria

Raughton Head YFC is celebrating its 85th year and boasts a diverse programme of meetings and events, including local business visits and talks from charities like the Great North Air Ambulance. This year, they participated in a charity challenge, "Many Miles for MND," to support a local dairy farmer diagnosed with MND. The club encourages members to compete in public speaking, consistently achieving success at county and national levels. With around 100 members, Raughton Head promotes inclusivity, offering support to those with additional needs. They maintain communication through social media and WhatsApp, ensuring everyone feels welcome and engaged in club activities.

Wedmore YFC, Somerset

Wedmore YFC

Wedmore YFC celebrated its 90th anniversary this year, highlighted by their annual Show in April, featuring 54 cattle, 70 sheep, and 32 pigs. Originally a calf-rearing event started in 1934, the Show has been a cornerstone of the club, fostering growth and participation in various activities like stockjudging, public speaking, and drama. With 50 members, including 12 new recruits, the club communicates with them through Facebook, and WhatsApp, as well as face-to-face meetings. Junior members are actively involved, and parents contribute to safeguarding efforts. With a mix of farming and non-farming members, their activities and support network ensure all members are given a chance to succeed.

YFC Supporter of the Year Finalists 2024

Alan Radcliffe

Isle of Man

Alan is a dedicated club President who is credited with helping to grow membership numbers at his club, securing its future. Known locally as Steady Al, he attends all YFC meetings and events, devoting his time to developing the young people involved. His own love of YFC competitions from his time as a member is now being shared with the next generation. He’s been known to transport a minibus load of YFC members across to the UK to compete in the Northern Area Field Day. Alan has also supported fundraising initiatives and ensured the club sits proudly at the heart of its community.

Alan Radcliffe

Bay Bardwell

Somerset

Bay has been committed to YFC for more than 45 years – taking on committee roles and offering support where needed. As a passionate supporter of Public Speaking competitions, she has trained countless teams over the years, travelling miles across the county to meet children and their families to help train them for competitions. Described as the ‘encyclopaedia of YFC’ Bay is always called upon for her sage advice and support. She puts her heart and soul into YFC – and is dedicated to ensuring other young people get as much out of the organisation as she did as a member.

Bay Bardwell

Linda Kinston

Leicestershire and Rutland

As Club President, Linda has chosen to have a hands-on role encouraging all members of the club to achieve their best. Described as a ‘real-life Mother Hen,’ Linda looks out for all the young people involved in the club – nurturing and building confidence. She is credited with transforming the club and helping it to win the title of Club of the Year in 2023. They also won the Rally and have gone on to compete at national finals thanks to Linda’s encouragement of all members to ‘have a go’. No one is missed out under Linda’s watch and her involvement in supporting the club officers and members has turned this quiet club around.

Linda Kinston

Mark Horner

Oxfordshire

Mark is a dedicated club leader of Faringdon YFC, helping to organise all aspects of the club from programming to fundraising. He takes an active role in the club, training members for competitions. He even shares land on his farm for members to practice for the Tug of War competition, which they have won several times at the Rally and competed at the national final. Despite managing a busy farm, Mark always finds time for YFC and has helped to grow the senior club again after its closure eight years ago. Successes at the County Rally are attributed to Mark and his help in preparations, training and moral support. Without Mark, the club believe they would not be where they are today.

Mark Horner

Martin Attwell

Hampshire

Martin has held many roles in YFC over the 37 years he has been involved in the organisation; his latest being County President. His knowledge and experience has greatly benefited the Federation and his guidance and support is valued immensely. He is a great instigator of fundraisers and has a keen eye for figures so has kept the county on track. He will get stuck in and help practically wherever needed but also provides considered feedback to help committee members make informed decisions. His pride in YFC fuels a passion to encourage others to join and support the organisation.

Martin Attwell

New Member of the Year Finalists 2024

Abby Neale

Downham Market YFC, Norfolk

Since joining Downham YFC in November, Abby quickly became a committed member, taking on the role of Programme Secretary just a month later. She organised diverse meetings to cater to members' interests, including a gingerbread house-making event. When the Vice Chair resigned in February, Abby stepped up, organising events like the county football match against Essex and supporting committee members. Her enthusiasm and dedication have strengthened the club. Abby has taken a lead role in helping to launch a Countrysiders section of the club for younger members to mark their 80th year. Abby is a role model for younger members and is always keen to get involved.

Abby Neale

Emma-Louise

Easingwold YFC, Yorkshire

Emma-Louise has been one of the driving forces behind the re-birth of Easingwold YFC. Keen to see the club get back on its feet, Emma-Louise helped make a plan to resurrect the club. Their efforts worked as the club now has 50 members and even hosted the District Rally this year. Emma-Louise plays an active part in the club, helping out wherever she can. A keen fundraiser, she supported the club’s Christmas Tree collection. She’s determined to ensure the club remains open for future generations.

Emma-Louise

Millie Evans

Brown Clee YFC, Shropshire

Since joining Brown Clee YFC, Millie has been an invaluable member, always eager to help and participate in competitions, even those she finds challenging. She dedicates her Monday nights to meetings and bravely took part in the Mace Debate despite having no public speaking experience, gaining confidence in the process. Millie also joined the Disco Dancing and Show Choir competitions, bringing enthusiasm and fun to the group. Her commitment extends beyond competitions; she actively supports fundraising events by working behind the bar and selling raffle tickets.

Millie Evans

Sam

Muston and District YFC, East Riding of Yorkshire

Sam has taken the lead among younger members in his club, volunteering as Junior Chair and representing the club at meetings. He excels in stockjudging, winning at both club and county levels, and competes actively in various events, including helping other clubs in tug-of-war. When there was no one to help with the rally clean up, Sam assisted and brought his parents along too. He also played a key role in a fundraising cake stall, attracting new members. His confidence and dedication stand out, and he has come such a long way in his first year.

Sam

Sophie Goodwin

St Columb, Cornwall

Sophie has quickly become an integral part of the club, regularly attending weekly meetings despite juggling university commitments and a two-hour drive home. As treasurer in her first year, she ensures timely payments and chases any money owed. Sophie participates in various competitions, including cake decorating and first aid quizzes, and was one of the organisers for a charity auction. Her enthusiasm helped prepare the club’s display for the Royal Cornwall Show and she inspired others to get involved. With a positive attitude and infectious personality, she has quickly become a popular figure in the club.

Sophie Goodwin

Community Spirit Finalists 2024

Broughton YFC, Cumbria

Broughton YFC

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, Cumbria

Caldbeck YFC, Yorkshire

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, Ceredigion

Llangwyryfon YFC, Ceredigion

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, Kent

Weald of Kent YFC, Kent

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, Shropshire

Whittington & Oswestry YFC, Shropshire

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.

Heart of YFC Finalists 2024

Ceridwen Edwards

Clwyd

Ceridwen Edwards

David Harvey

Northumberland

David Harvey

David Long

Norfolk

David Long

Rhian Hughes

Carmarthenshire

Rhian Hughes

Jack Saunders

Oxfordshire

Jack Saunders