Rallying cry to young farmers (From Western Telegraph)

Rallying cry to young farmers

Can it really be 60 years since the Pembrokeshire Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs staged its first County Rally?

As the Federation prepares for this diamond anniversary celebration on Saturday, these photographs will stir a memory or two for the 'old timers'. The County Rally has come a long way since its humble beginnings at Slebech Park.

Eight clubs took part in that first Rally but within six years the number had escalated to 25 with a membership of 1,300.

Although Haverfordwest has been a static host venue for many years, the event had migrated to other sites across the county - Crymych, Tenby, Pembroke and Picton Castle. It returned to Haverfordwest in the 1980s where it remains to this day.

The Rally is a celebration of young talent - an opportunity for Young Farmers to compete against fellow club members in a variety of activities. From the outset they have been regarded as dress rehearsals for major successes at national and international competitions.

This year, competitions range from horse stock judging and dancing to cookery and craft. There will be an opportunity for competitors to create a non-alcoholic cocktail or to show off their skills at kite making.

The underlying message is that there is something to suit everyone, whatever their talent or ability, said the YFC County Organiser in Pembrokeshire, Dil Williams.

"The Rally is always well supported but we are hoping that all members, past and present, will make every effort to attend on Saturday to mark the 60th anniversary,'' she said.

The county chairman, Andrew Lewis, is hoping for a big turnout of past Rally Queens. "The Rally Queen is the ambassador of this event and as such there will be a special welcome to all those who have held this position,'' he said.

The judging of the first event begins at 9am at the Pembrokeshire County Showground at Withybush. The day will reach a climax at 3pm with an explosion of colour at the 'Caribbean Carnival'.