Devon's young farmers are this week celebrating their 90th anniversary amidst record membership numbers.

The Devon Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFC) was founded in 1932 and it is marking its 90th year with a Grand Anniversary Ball in a marquee outside Wroford Manor on Saturday (June 25).

Past and present members have been invited to celebrate the movement’s rich history, as well as look ahead to the future.

Helen Pring, Devon YFC county organiser, said: “Devon YFC is a vast network of members, advisory, leaders and supporters, all of which are instrumental to the strength of the federation today.

“Whether you’re aged 19 or 90, we all consider ourselves young farmer’s at heart, and we can’t wait to welcome you all at our celebratory event this June.”

South West Farmer: Axminster Young Farmers showing their calves in 1935Axminster Young Farmers showing their calves in 1935

This month, Devon YFC has also reached another milestone, with membership numbers now over 1,800. This is its highest membership figures since 2002.

Rosie Bennett, Devon YFC county chairman said: “It has been astonishing to see Devon YFC truly spring back from the pandemic. We must thank all our members, and particularly our club officers, for being determined to put on busy and varied club programmes that have encouraged young people back to our organisation.

“YFC activities such as public speaking, stock judging and tug of war have never been so popular.

"I am incredibly proud that we are at our highest membership figures for 20 years. Devon YFC is definitely back, bigger and better than ever!”

South West Farmer: Devon YFC members and supporters at their HQ in Cheriton Bishop Devon YFC members and supporters at their HQ in Cheriton Bishop

To further celebrate their 90th anniversary, Devon YFC has also published a commemorative book that documents their highlights from 1932 to 2022. The book was collated by former Devon YFC county organiser David Baker, alongside his wife Jill.

David said: “It has been a great pleasure to update the Devon YFC History Book for this commemorative 90th year edition; the federation has a depth of talent which is certainly captured within the book.

“It brought back so many memories of my time associated with the federation which spans nearly 70 years!”

You can order the commemorative book, as well as tickets for the Devon YFC 90th Anniversary Grand Ball at devonyfc.co.uk.