Young Farmers’ Club members from across Cornwall got stuck into tasks from the serious to the fun and frivolous at the county’s summer rally, sponsored by the South West’s leading rural insurer, NFU Mutual.

The event, on Saturday July 29 took place at Pencrennys Farm, Talskiddy, St Columb by kind permission of Mr and Mrs T Retallick and family.

Hosted by the St Columb, Probus and Wadebridge Young Farmers’ clubs and chaired by Maddy Tabb and Nathan Osborne of St Columb YFC, the event included a range of skills tests, from flower arranging to tug of war.

Reflecting the wide range of delicious Cornish food and drink – and the healthy appetites of YFC members - there were 32 cookery classes alone in the packed day of events. Starting with the inevitable Cornish pasty and including a novel dish - a rainbow jelly in a milk bottle – a wide range of culinary skills were tested.

Agricultural themes were fully explored too, from butter churning and sheaf pitching to tractor driving and a mini-digger challenge. Representatives from each of the YFCs taking part were also invited to try their hand at auctioneering in the main ring.

A royal theme, in keeping with this year’s Coronation of King Charles, could be detected in some of the classes, including make a Pie Fit for a King, a Drink Fit for a King, a Homemade Crown and a Crown Made from Flowers.

Some of the less serious events were the most fiercely fought – including lawn mower racing (blades removed!) tent erecting and blowing a hunting horn.

Rachel Sleep, NFU Mutual Agent in Launceston said: “Cornwall YFC rally is a highlight of the YFC year and we are proud to have been able to support it. To see so many Young Farmers Club members working together and enjoying themselves is fantastic.

“The high standard of entries of handicrafts never ceases to amaze me and it really showcases how talented these young people are. It’s a day not to be missed and we were kept thoroughly entertained from start to finish.”