South-West Young Farmers flock to conference (From Mid Devon Star)

South-West Young Farmers flock to conference

11:11am Tuesday 2nd March 2010 in Devon

MORE than 1,000 'Young Farmers' are due to attend the South West Young Farmers Conference, sponsored by Mole Valley Farmers, at the Livermead Cliff Hotel in Torquay this weekend.

Organised this year by Nick Creasy, from Devon Young Farmers, the weekend will consist of a programme of topical events and issue led debates, interactive activities and competitions.

The highlight of the weekend will be a ‘Question Time’ style debate taking place on Saturday when a panel of regional representatives will discuss rural issues affecting the farming youth of today.

The panel includes Dr Stuart Burgess, Chairman of the Countryside Agency and Government’s Rural Advocate, Andrew Slade, Head of RDA, Graeme Cock, Director of Mole Valley Farmers and Edd Akerman from Wiltshire Young Farmers.

The top item up for debate is the issue of rural housing and employment for this next generation of farmers.

Nick Creasy joined the Young Farmers network six years ago after an extensive background in community work based both in UK cities and abroad.

Now settled in Devon, Nick is at the forefront of the counties Young Farmers network, as the voice of a young generation of farmers who face difficult changes in agriculture and rural life.

He said: “We’re really appreciative of the support Mole Valley Farmers has given us in helping make this weekend happen.

"Past events have been incredibly well received by our members and we’ve had another great response this year.

"The weekend will be a celebration of all the activity that takes place throughout the year as well as providing us with an opportunity to share ideas and discuss important industry issues.”

Young Farmers from across the South-West will be competing in a variety of competitions including public speaking, sports and drama.

Anticipation will also build towards the announcement of Senior and Junior Young Farmer of the year, due to be announced on Sunday.

All attendees will also have the opportunity to have a virtual tour of the brand new Mole Valley Farmers website via a portable kiosk staffed by MVF Ecommerce Manager Ben Rowland.

The new look website has individual hub pages for farming, equine, shooting, smallholders and gardening with over 10,000 products available at the click of a button as well as interactive blogs and informative guides.

Graeme Cock, Director of Mole Valley Farmers said: “The future of agriculture and associated businesses lies with these young people and we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this positive event.

"We not only wish to be part of this process but we have a responsibility to help them fulfill their potential.”