THREE exciting new trips have been organised by SAYFC to extend the already jam-packed international travel opportunities available through the organisation.

Following the success of the ski trip earlier this year, another has been set for January 6 to 13 at Les Deux Alpes, Mont-de-Lans, France. The cost of £329 will cover accommodation, a lift pass for both Les Deux Alpes and Alpe d'Huex, as well as transport to Alpe d’Huez and SAYFC social evenings.

An addition this year will be the discounts available in bars and restaurants via the wrist band.

The closing deadline is December 9, and members can apply via the website.

Later in the year, members will have the chance to go to tour South Africa on safari, which includes several nights in some top accommodation. Flying out on July 31, 2018, the trip will include a night at Town Lodge Sandton, Johannesburg, before heading to the South-east coast of the country for two nights at Anew Hluhluwe. From there, they will head to Brahman Hills where they will spend three nights before heading to the very South-west for four nights at Inn on the Square in Cape Town.

The itinerary and £3000 cost includes flights, bed and breakfast at the majority of of stays, with additional dinner at several, as well as a visit to the wildcat project, transport with guide on touring days, and a farewell dinner with interactive drumming session on the final evening.

Members can also apply via the website, and have until December 15 to sign up.

Following on from the successful study tour to Devon earlier in the year, those in Agri and Rural Affairs circles will be keen to snap up a place on the 2018 international study tour to California which will take place next November/December and will be approximately 12 days.

With the theme of 'Improving efficiency by embracing technology', the conference will look at how the industry must adapt, farm smarter and improve efficiency by embracing modern technology, no matter what sector you come from.

Agri and Rural Affairs vice-chairman, Iain Wilson, said: "Agriculture is becoming more and more reliant on modern technology as we all try to improve efficiency in a bid to make a profit in touch times. California is one of the most technologically advanced agricultural areas in the world so it’s vital that our members get a chance to see this and can bring home important knowledge and experiences to share with the wider industry and drive forward our own domestic advances."

Applications for the trip are now open with the entries closing on February 3, 2018.