Disappointment as YF events are called off
Disappointment as YF events are called off
YOUNG farmers have expressed disappointment at the cancellation of their annual convention – but support the decision to call it off.
Thousands of young people have had to scrap plans to visit Torquay for the May 4-6 convention to take part in the NFYFCs agm, competitions, debates and social events.
Richard Geldard, NFYFC Member of the Year, was planning to travel to Devon from Cumbria. "Its a big disappointment for the members. Its the main focally point, nationally, that everyone looks forward to."
The lambing and calving workload would have eased by the beginning of May in Cumbria, he says. "Its a great time to get away. Its something everyone enjoys and looks forward to. Such a shame."
But cancelling it was the right decision, stresses Richard. "Such a lot of pre-planning goes into it, its not the sort of thing you can cancel the weekend before."
And losing the convention – when put in the context of the nationwide devastation of foot-and-mouth – is a "minor detail", he says.
Steven Jarvis, NFYFC chairman of council, says: "This has not been an easy decision – but it was the only course of action for us to take."
Alternative events will be held to incorporate the competitions and the agm will be rescheduled, adds Mr Jarvis.
Meanwhile local YFC events – around the country – have been called off until further notice.