by anna burdett Farming and rural affairs editor

Last updated 10:39, Friday, 14 November 2008

MEMBERSHIP of Cumbria’s young farmers’ clubs is booming despite dwindling numbers of agricultural workers.

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Facials to farming: Heather Holland, beauty therapist at The Haven in Brampton, is a young farmer member

Even youngsters unconnected with farming have turned to the burgeoning organisation, one of the few operating in both rural and urban areas.

Carlisle YFC has seen a big increase this year from around 50 to more than 75 members.

Graham Holliday, who has completed a year as county chairman, said: “The majority of members have some connection to farming – they could be vets or agricultural solicitors. There are a lot of related jobs.

“The organisation has had a high profile this year thanks to a lot of success at national competitions, people want to be a part of something that is successful.”

Clubs take part in quizzes, plays, sport and national and regional competitions.

In August, there were 1,130 members, up from 1,054 the previous year. This is despite huge numbers of dairy and hill farmers leaving the industry.

Mr Holliday added: “I think next year’s figures could be even better, some clubs have grown astronomically this year, especially Carlisle and Kirklinton.”

Beauty therapist Heather Holland joined Brampton Young Farmers because she wanted to take part in the pantomime.

She has since met boyfriend Rob Gorst and sometimes helps out on the family farm. She said: “I joined Brampton club five years ago and one of the best things is all the really good friends you make from all over the county.

“Last year, I became club secretary, which was a real challenge.

“I thoroughly enjoyed being able to plan each meeting, and to make it as fun as possible,” added Heather. “I had no idea how much work people put into the organisation.”

At the county’s annual meeting at Penrith’s George Hotel on Friday, members heard how the Broughton-in-Furness club had increased membership by 64 per cent.

Trophies were presented to clubs who triumphed at district, county, regional and national level.

Alan Bowe, chairman of H&H Group, was elected president, while Lowick’s James Nicholson is new chairman.

Crook YFC was recognised for making the most effort this year after entering virtually every competition it could.