Shropshire Farming Talk: London, bowling and now panto competition!

 We  had a very busy few months on the run up to Christmas. 

So, we are gently easing back into the swing of things and starting to gear up for a fun 2025 filled with YFC events and competitions!

Many club nights incorporate bowling, so January was our annual bowling competition at Hollywood Bowl, Shrewsbury. 

Every club competed, with some having two teams. This was a brilliant achievement by the competitions top table recruiting teams from our 17 clubs. 

The majority of participants were made up of our junior members (under 18) and it was fantastic to see them keen to compete and get involved. 

The more you put into YFC the more you get out, having fun, making friends and building skills - not just bowling. 

On January 20,  myself and six other members travelled for a tour of the Houses of Parliament, thanks to South Shropshire MP, Stuart Anderson. 

In an early start, we travelled to Stafford to catch the train to Euston. 

Some of the group had never been to London so we headed to the underground. 

We had that moment of panic when half the group got on the underground, the doors suddenly closing and the other half being left on the platform. 

After a little panic (from me) and a laugh, we met up with the others at the next tube stop. 

We all got to Westminster and had a very informative tour of the Houses of Parliament, which everyone enjoyed. 

While we were in London, we tried to make the most of it, by visiting Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and a quick tour of the Food Hall at Harrods. 

For me, it was interesting to see the items on offer – especially the cheese (being an artisan cheesemaker). 

Some 20,000 steps later we headed back to the train station to find our way home. 

As we look forward to what’s next in the YFC calendar, we are getting closer to my favourite competition of the year – the Panto and One Plus. 

When I started YFC at 13, the One Plus was the first competition I competed in. 

I can’t wait to see all the marvellous talent of Shropshire YFC members, with five clubs in the Panto competition and 10 in the one plus. 

These competitions are the best way to make friends, step out of your comfort zone, encourage teamwork and of course it is great fun. 

The competition is Tuesday, February 19 to Friday, February 21 at The Edge Theatre, Much Wenlock. 

If you want to keep up to date on our latest news and events, follow our Facebook or Instagram pages - @ShropshireYFC . 

If uou would love to join your local YFC, please visit www.sfyfc.org.uk or contact our County Office on 01743 442880. 

by Millie Preece, County Chair of Shropshire Young Farmers 2024-2025