Hello from Essex young farmers, although with the farmers amongst us starting to prepare for the harvest ahead, Essex young farmers still managed to fit in a couple more things, writes Harriet Baines.

Wix and Colchester young farmers were located at the Tendring Show on July 13, where they had a tent for all subscribers to come in and have a drink and some food, all put on by the two clubs.

They were even seen running around the ring in the afternoon wearing overalls, apple bobbing, and all sorts in their super young farmer race. Congratulations to Colchester club for retaining the trophy for another year.

Wix young farmers then put on a well attended party after the show at a neighbouring barn, well done Wix for organising such a successful event.

We wish Colchester young farmers luck in the Nationals tug of war final on August 3 where they will be representing Essex at the Tenbury show.

Although with harvest setting in we will be quieter over the next month or so, you will find us at Brownstock this year with a stand so please come along and meet us, you can find out about our federation and what we get up to.

We still have a few commemorative books available for 70 years of young farmers, they truly are a good read with lots of photos and articles from members through the decades.

Please contact the county office if you would like to purchase one, they are £15 plus p&p of £2 if you cannot collect.

We are all looking forward to Barleylands in September, and kick starting the new year with Sam Iddison our new county chairman and Charlie Willett our president.

They put so much time and effort into the club in these positions, so a big thank-you to the retiring Charlie Webber and Robert Smith for their fantastic support and work in the federation over the last few years as we see Essex young farmers go from strength to strength.

We have had some amazing achievements this year, Halstead Young Farmers winning the National Public Speaking award, putting on a superb 70th ball for 1300 people, charity fundraising as always has been amazingly high to a variety of different charities, and of course another successful country show.

As always please feel free to contact Mary or Jackie in the office for any information you require, 01245 360442, office@essexyfc.co.uk or visit us on www.essexyoungfarmers.com.