The start of the new YFC year always marks the beginning of a countywide tour of club AGMs, writes Angharad Binder, Suffolk YFC county chair.

This year is no different and it is a fantastic opportunity for all of our clubs to reflect on their achievements and successes.

It is also a chance to refresh and revitalise clubs with new committee members, and of course thank the hard work of the outgoing committees.

The year ahead is bursting with new ideas, competitions and events and there is already a lot of enthusiasm coming from the clubs.

A key aspect of AGM season is good navigation skills to find some very remote pubs and halls! As outgoing chair, I have handed this task over to my vice, Tom Walne, who has embraced the challenge. Once you find the places, it is a real privilege to be a part of each club’s celebration of their year, and to see such passion coming from the members.

The competitions have already gotten underway with Autumn Sports Day at Old Buckenham Hall School. There were junior and senior tournaments of hockey, netball, rugby and volleyball. There was a great turn out from the clubs, with some varied results throughout the heats.

Stowmarket unfortunately took a hit on the injury side of things in their rugby matches, but battled on through to win the hockey and netball tournament.

Ahead of us we have a New Members Fortnight, in line with the National Young Farmers Campaign. We have Radio One DJs Scott Mills and Chris Stark on board as national ambassadors, who are already promoting the good work of YFC.

Suffolk will again be erecting bale sculptures to raise our profile, so keep an eye out! Have a look at our brand new website to find details of your local club.

New members fortnight runs from November 16 to 29 with a YFC bonfire and fireworks social on November 13. We’re hoping for a fantastic turn out of faces new and old!