LUDLOW Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) celebrated a 70 year milestone at Ludlow Racecourse this October with more than 300 founder, past and current young farmers attending a harvest supper in a fitting end to the club's anniversary year.

Attendees, who had travelled from as far as Scotland, Devon and Cornwall, for the evening were entertained by guest speakers, memorabilia, a live band and the annual award ceremony to congratulate this year’s outstanding members.

The event was a chance to recall the many stories and tribulations from the clubs history including weddings, awards, and trips, as well as the many charity donations.

Ben Sanders, the 2014 club chairman who initiated the forage aid campaign in Shropshire that saw over fifty tons of feed, hay and straw donated to flooded farmers in Somerset, congratulated everyone’s efforts in making the anniversary a success.

“Since the very first meeting in 1944, Ludlow YFC has been a big part of rural Ludlow and the youngsters within it," he said. "Ludlow has had hundreds of members over the past 70 years, donated thousands of pounds to charity and always put Ludlow on the map for YFC.”

Newly elected club leader Andrew Martin from Bitterley, near Ludlow, will be joined by secretary Francesca Hinves and treasurer Charlotte Clarke in 2015, who will work together on the search for new members.

Despite high average membership for Shropshire, Ludlow YFC continues its fresh outlook approach to ensure the survival of the club.

“The statement you don’t have to be a farmer to be a young farmer couldn’t be more accurate. If you know anyone aged between 14 and 26, tell them about our new members evening and don’t assume it’s not for you” said Mr Martin.

Anybody who wants an active social life is encouraged to join. Weekly meetings involve sports, entertainment, leisure, trips and visits with great opportunities available and lots of money raised for charity.

Ludlow Young Farmers are holding a new members evening at Ludlow Rugby Club on Tuesday October 28 at 7.30pm. Visit www.lyfc.yolasite.com to find out more.