THIS time of year for Young Farmers Clubs in Gwent is always hectic with the county AGM, stock judging and public speaking competitions.

Usk Young Farmers’ Club have been bringing home the prize cards and have started the year off with a bang.

The club were named Champion Club at the recent Gwent Federation of Young Farmers’ AGM, for what can only be described as an excellent year.

This prize was however just the beginning. Usk also were presented with the Efficiency Shield, for the effective running of their club meetings.

Helen Hinton, out-going club secretary of Usk, received best secretary within the county.

Owain Williams, out-going chairman, claimed third best for this position.

Nigel Bowyer, ex-club president said: “Congratulations to the club on their many successes at this year’s county AGM. It is great to see youngsters enjoying and succeeding in these competitions and gaining life skills on the way.”

As this year’s competitions get underway, the club’s success continues. At the recent county stock judging competition held at Nant-y-Deri Farm, Llantilio Crosseny, there were more prizes to be had.

Nerys Lewis snatched first place for junior lamb and beef stock judging and third in the lamb trimming competition. Miss Lewis will now be going on to represent Gwent at the English Winter Fair.

Meanwhile chairperson, Laura Baker, took home first prize for senior lamb stock judging. Following suit, Charlie Bowyer, club treasurer was awarded second place in both senior lamb and beef judging and Angharad Gwillim coming third in the senior lamb trimming.

Next in the diary was the county public speaking competition held at Monmouthshire County Council Chamber.

Usk junior team, came fourth place, with Milly Coley awarded first for her vote of thanks, Christie Baker third best speaker, with Ben Baker chairing their team.

And in a very long evening of intense debate finishing at 1am, the club’s senior debating team of Nerys Lewis, Kat Morgan, Owain Williams, Charlie Bowyer and Laura Baker took home third place.

Laura Baker, club chairperson, said: “Well done to everyone for all the hard work and training put in over the last two weeks and a huge thank you to the club’s trainers who continue to support us.

“In the run up to Christmas we will be going ice skating and enjoying our annual charity carol singing evening as well as the club’s dinner and dance.

For any enquiries, including how to become a member, contact club secretary Laura Morgan on 07724 057553.