FOR the second year running, members of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs have taken part in the now annual national bale art competition, using a mix of wrapped and silage bales to create an artistic feature, in order to promote both their organisation and Scotch Lamb.

Having been a success in the west area, before being made a national competition by then SAYFC chairman, Suzie Dunn, this year's bale art contest saw Young Farmers clubs from all over Scotland, 54 to be exact, entered, and six of those have now been selected to be judged in the final, under the discerning eye of Scottish TV presenter, Lorraine Kelly.

A mix of ideas were included, ranging from Halloween, Disney, tractors and teddy bear themes, as well as children's rhyme Humpty Dumpty. The six finalists are: Strichen JAC, Mid Deeside YFC, East Mainland YFC, SSS YFC, Avondale YFC and Strathbogie YFC.

Director of communications for Quality Meat Scotland, Carol McLaren, said: “The bale art competition offers a fantastic opportunity, particularly during Scotland’s Year of Young People, to showcase the innovation and creativity of Scotland’s young farmers, as well as proudly supporting the industry’s Scotch Lamb brand.

“The energy and enthusiasm which the young farmers have put into their entries this year shines through and we hope it will raise a smile to thousands of people as they enjoy the colourful works of art in fields around the country. Our best wishes to all the finalists!”

SAYFC chairman, David Lawrie, of Kinross, added: “It has been amazing to see so many clubs taking part and so many creative and ambitious designs – congratulations to the six finalists. We are delighted to also support the work of the STV Children’s Appeal and those who enjoy the bale art over the coming weeks are being urged to make a donation by way of appreciation via the JustGiving page.”

Last year’s competition saw donations top £500, and the teams are hoping to raise even more this year. You can make a donation by visiting: justgiving.com/fundraising/baleart2018

The bale art competition comes amidst QMS’s 10-week campaign to get the country enjoying more Scotch Lamb which, following £200,000 of funding from the Scottish Government, includes TV, radio, print and billboard advertising.