Newbury Young Farmers win scarecrow challenge

A scarecrow display created by Newbury Young Farmers’ Club has been crowned the winner of a national competition celebrating rural communities and the importance of belonging.

The Berkshire club took first place in the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) Scarecrow Challenge 2026 after creating an eye-catching scene alongside the busy A339 between Newbury and Basingstoke.

The installation, at Folly Farm, featured a realistic-looking tractor and trailer constructed from straw and silage bales, carrying personalised scarecrows resembling club members.

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The display was designed to celebrate friendship, community spirit and the welcoming nature of Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFCs).

The challenge formed part of NFYFC’s National Young Farmers’ Week in October, with clubs across England and Wales invited to create scarecrow scenes around the theme of “belonging”.

Cannon Hall Farm judge

Judged by Cannon Hall Farm farmer and television presenter Dave Nicholson, Newbury’s entry impressed with its location, creativity and teamwork.

Dave said: “Newbury Young Farmers, I was blown away by how they embraced the theme. The location was brilliant. They put a lot of team effort into building it. So well done to you for first prize.”

Dave Nicholson © Dave Nicholson

The club has won £200 from NFYFC partner Moorgate Finance to spend on an activity for its members.

Club leader Amanda Keable said: “Our scarecrow scene was truly a club-wide effort, with every member playing a part in bringing the display to life.

“From the very first planning session to the final touches of paint, the project became a brilliant example of what belonging to Young Farmers really means – working side by side, laughing together, and creating something that reflects our community spirit.”

Wallace and Gromit effigy

The Bwlych and Crickhowell YFC team with the Wallace and Gromit scarecrow © Bwlych and Crickhowell YFC

The Staindrop YFC scarecrow entry © Staindrop YFC

Second place went to Bwlch and Crickhowell YFC in Brecknock for a Wallace and Gromit-inspired display featuring recycled materials and a farming and friendship theme.

Club leader Kirsty Davies said: “Using recycled and leftover materials throughout the display reflects the creativity, teamwork and practical skills that are such an important part of Young Farmers.”

Third place was awarded to Staindrop YFC in County Durham for its “We’re all part of the same flock” display in Caldwell Village.

Club chair Rachel Dent said: “The display also highlights that belonging extends beyond YFC itself, it is about supporting local families, businesses, farmers and the wider rural community.”

The annual scarecrow challenge aims to raise awareness of YFCs and celebrate their contribution to rural communities.

Anyone interested in joining their local club can find more information at nfyfc.org.uk/welcome-to-young-farmers.