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Club of the Year

Winner: Netherseal YFC, Leicestershire and Rutland

Netherseal YFC, in Leicestershire, is the second largest club in the county with 74 members and boasts a dynamic and inclusive environment. They cater to varying age groups, ensuring everyone feels engaged and excited about club activities.

From bubble football and summer rounders to veterinary and brewing tours – there’s something for everyone in their varied club programme.

Road safety demonstrations conducted by Leicestershire Fire and Police are among the more serious meetings. While British produce can feature highly at other meetings such as crafting pork pies, baking on Pancake Day, and preparing Christmas meals.

Netherseal YFC

The club's most significant gathering was a technical tour of a progressive dairy unit, where over 55 members came together.

Socialising goes beyond the club, with falconry displays, feed milling tours, and collaborative events with neighbouring clubs enjoying Skittles and go-get-it challenges.

The club's supportive atmosphere serves as a valuable networking hub for job opportunities and local knowledge.

Business talks from local companies, such as Merlo Machinery and Howkins and Harrison, provide valuable insights for members contemplating future careers.

Netherseal is renowned for its impressive participation in competitions, entering all 108 competitions in Leicestershire.

The club's dedication to the community is clear through charity efforts such as the Christmas tractor run, which raised £9,145. Their initiatives span various opportunities, including community engagement, fundraising, and competitive events.

Effective communication is key to the club's success, with regular committee meetings, weekly updates sent via text messages, and a quarterly club programme posted on their Facebook page for easy access. Netherseal aims to cater to diverse age groups, with dedicated under-18 and over-18 group chats to facilitate age-appropriate interactions.

Netherseal consistently promotes itself through various events, such as LEAF Open Farm Sunday and the Ashby Show. The club's focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment is seen through initiatives like appointing a safeguarding member and offering first-aid-trained members. Every meeting, including those with higher risks, has a thorough risk assessment, ensuring members' safety.

Their remarkable year, with multiple wins in sports, Stockjudging, Tug of War, and Public Speaking competitions, along with winning the Leicestershire rally, reflects the club's energetic spirit and strong camaraderie.

Netherseal YFC is dedicated to the growth and the well-being of its members.

What the judges said:

Netherseal ticked all the boxes of a great YFC – varied club programme, great communication, strong safeguarding processes, good retention and recruitment of members, as well as a good support for their community. This is a large club with a lot of energy and there was lots to like about them.

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