THERE was a double celebration for the North Region as the National weekend drew to a close on Sunday, when two teams from the region went on to secure first and second place at the senior speechmaking final.

Judges Colin Manson, David Braid and Martin Kennedy praised the teams for the exceptionally high standard of competition and gave a helpful critique ahead of the results announcement.

Having last won the contest 35 years ago, back in 1981, it was Turriff JAC's turn again for the spotlight when Murray Stephen, Elaine Duguid, Andrew Dalgarno and Aimee Margrove picked up first place with the topic 'Are current grant schemes doing enough to plan for succession?'

With plenty personal input from speaker, Elaine, on her experiences on the family farm, the team, chaired by Murray, stormed to the lead with 148 2/3 points.

Perhaps what made this all the sweeter was the fact that this was only Murray, Elaine and question master, Andrew's third year competing, having picked up third place last year, while Aimee proposed the vote of thanks at what was her first time speechmaking.

Udny JAC had two teams forward in the final but it was the blue team of Tom Bruce, Helen Bruce, Gemma Bruce and Heather Charles, that notched up 143 2/3 points to finish in second place having discussed 'How do you resolve Scotland's unhealthy relationship with alcohol?'

There were further celebrations for Gemma and Heather as they were best question master and mover of the vote of thanks outwith the winning team.

Finishing in third place, with 142 points on the board, was Carluke YFC with members Jennifer Hall, John Brown, Scott Somerville and Lizzie Mackie talking on the subject 'Should we continue to spend money on exploring the space above us?' Jennifer was also the best chairman outwith the winning team.