Norfolk young farmer celebrates national YFC Achiever Award

Jago Downes won the New Member of the Year category in the YFC (Young Farmers Club) Achiever Awards.

He joined Diss YFC following his move from Oxfordshire, and awards judges said: "Jago has thrown himself into his club and county – making connections with other clubs, taking on a committee role and organising interesting club meetings all in his first year.

"He's also come up with ideas for attracting new members who may not be from a farming background to help with the future development of the club."

The 21-year-old, who lives in Eye and works as a forestry contractor, said: "It was a privilege to even be nominated for this award, so to have won was an honour."

He added that he felt it was important to build a diverse membership among YFC clubs, which are "invaluable" in rural communities. "It connects quite a few people and it keeps rural communities alive," he said.

Jago Downes of Diss Young Farmers Club Jago Downes won the New Member of the Year category in the YFC Achiever Awards (Image: Norfolk YFC)

Norfolk YFC chairman Ben Johnson said he was "delighted", adding: "Jago’s enthusiasm and fresh perspectives have breathed new life into not only his club, Diss YFC, but also the county reminding us all of the importance of embracing new talent and ideas.

"He’s made amazing connection around the county, quickly thrown himself into YFC life taking on club officer roles including taking on programme secretary - not an easy feat for a new member.

"Jago truly and utterly deserves this award and I look forward to seeing him progress through his time in YFC."

Other Norfolk finalists included Wymondham YFC in the Club of the Year category, and Dereham YFC member Lucy Stowell, who was shortlisted for the Heart of YFC Award.