The awards ceremony, which was held at The National Conference Centre in Birmingham on November 8, attracted 500 young farmers, supporters and alumni to the glittering black tie event.
It was a successful night for Lincolnshire with Heckington and Sleaford being named named Club of the Year 2025, the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network (LRSN) being given a special commendation for their support of the Lincolnshire County Federation of YFC and Wainfleet YFC were awarded a runner up prize for the Community Spirit Award.
Despite being a relatively new club, Heckington and Sleaford YFC has made a big impact, growing its membership to 69 in the past year, with junior members now making up the majority.
A varied programme of events – ranging from educational workshops to engaging social activities – has kept members engaged.
Club chair Beth Appleyard said: “I’m so unbelievably proud of every single one of our members. When we set this club up in 2018 we didn’t know what to expect but I never in a million years thought we would achieve something as amazing as this! Watch this space because there is plenty more to come from us…”
The club was praised for its commitment to wellbeing through its partnership with the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network, which delivered a mental health workshop and trained members in Mental Health First Aid. Safety and safeguarding were top priorities, with robust systems in place to support junior members.
Heckington and Sleaford YFC also excelled in competitions, entering every county event and placing in the top three in most, including an impressive fifth place in the national rally.
Their promotional efforts, including a standout presence at the Heckington Show and viral TikTok content with over one million views, have helped attract new members and raise awareness.
Jessica Rose, National Federation Vice Chair and judge, praised the club’s innovative use of social media and focus on internet safety. She said: “We liked their focus on internet safety and were impressed by their plans to develop a workshop on cyber security to keep members safe. The club ensures everyone feels included and is mindful of barriers such as costs and providing activities for all ages.”
The Club of the Year Award was one of eight awards presented on the evening, which honoured those shaping the future of rural Britain.
The awards, which were first launched in 2020, are a way of recognising and rewarding members of Young Farmers’ Clubs for the work they do in the community, for enterprising initiatives and for helping to develop other rural young people.
James Nixey, Chair of the NFYFC Council, said: “Our 23,000 members make a huge impact on rural communities and the rural economy and we’re proud to champion the countryside and British farming.
“YFC offers so many opportunities to learn, grow and make a difference. Our winners are a brilliant example of what can be achieved when young people get involved and give back to their communities. Congratulations to all the winners.”
More information about joining a local YFC can be found at https://www.nfyfc.org.uk/joining-yfc
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Members of Heckington and Sleaford with their certificate. from left - Lily-Mae Cartwright, Beth Appleyard and Alice Wesley. Photo: YFC
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Lincolnshire Rural Support Network with their special commendation. Photo: YFC
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Wainfleet YFC earned a runner-up prize for the Community Spirit Award. Photo: YFC