Farming Talk: Farewell and a promise of good times ahead
So this is it. This is my swansong, if you like, because as of November 9 I will no longer be the Shropshire Federation of Young Farmers Clubs county chairman.
On that date I shall be passing the chain of office over to Rhys Jones, from Much Wenlock, who has been my excellent vice chairman for the past 12 months.
Rhys is a great lad with YFC to his core. He is loved by all the members and will be a truly great chairman. I have nothing but excitement about what his year will bring.
Not only is it the end of my chairmanship, but it's also the end of my time as a competing member of young farmers. The past 12 years as a member has taught me so much. As I look back, no other organisation could offer what young farmers has.
There is too much to list, but the best way I can describe what I've learned is that I've learned life skills. There is no doubt in my mind that it has moulded me into who I am today. The other great thing YFC has given me is friendship and contacts. I've got friends, who I am sure will be for life, from over the whole county and people willing to help you out as best they can.
I'd like to say a big thanks to all people who have helped me this year. It hasn't been an easy 12 months, but when you have 900 friends who will help as best they can it makes it all a lot easier.
Also thank you to people who read this article and always have nice things to say about it which is always nice to hear – so thanks to everyone, you know who you are and I really appreciate all the help and support.
If anyone would like to attend the AGM, it's at the Lord Hill Hotel, Shrewsbury at 7.30pm on November 9.
Joe Hamer is retiring chairman of Shropshire Young Farmers
