SCOTT Wilson ended his year-long term as National chair of Scottish Association of Young Farmers' Clubs on a high thanks to a continuous increase in membership, the re-establishment of clubs and funding for additional training.

At the recent National agm held at the Young Farmers Centre in Ingliston, Beith YFC member Scott highlighted that membership increased for the third consecutive year, highlighting how rural youth are continuing to benefit from the association via events, training, travel and the wide social network.

The re-establishment of clubs on the west coast of Scotland also featured in his report. Before handing over to the new chairman, he thanked the committee for their enthusiasm and activity in raising awareness of SAYFC generating more support.

He commented: "It has been a privilege and honour to be your National chairman over the last year. Through my travels across Scotland meeting our clubs and districts, and our fellow Young Farmers organisations across the five nations, I have made lots of new friends and enjoyed some amazing experiences."

Filling Mr Wilson's boots as national chair for the next 12 months is Stuart Jamieson, a Belhelvie JAC member who has acted as vice chair for the past year.

"During the next 12 months I hope to continue to raise the profile of SAYFC while encouraging everyone to go out and support their local club," said Mr Jamieson.

"The announcement of £30,000 funding by Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead earlier this year will allow us to develop the training available to our members.

"During the last three years we have been building on this area of the association and through this grant we are in a position to put additional training in place much sooner than anticipated.

"One of my aims for the year is to ensure we maximise this opportunity so that as many members as possible can benefit from the business and agricultural skills available."

He added "Our alumni 'Friends of Young Farmers' will also be key this year as we encourage our past members, friends and family to sign up to invest in the future sustainability of SAYFC."

Assisting Mr Jamieson throughout the year will be SSS YFC member Suzie Dunn, who not only takes on the role of national vice but also chairman of the West Region.

Also on SAYFC's top table for the coming year are Nairn JAC member Lynne Macarthur who was recently voted on as North Region chair as well as the East Region chair, David Barclay, from Bankfoot JAC.

Gemma Bruce, Udny JAC, was newly elected as international chairman, while Lanark YFC's Sarah Allison retains her role of Agri and Rural Affairs chairman, and Duncan Morrison, Inverurie JAC, takes on the new post of Agri and Rural Affairs vice chairman.