Since hearing the sad news of the passing of HM the Queen, the Patron of The National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, some past members of Staffordshire YFC have been remembering an experience that they will never forget. Back in 2006 on 31st March, five members plus the County Organiser, Julia Taylor, were chosen to represent Staffordshire YFC at a Tea Party held for 200 pensioners who were also celebrating their 80th birthday, the same as her Majesty at the time.
The five members – Bryce Mackellar, Trevor Shelley, Vanessa Rowlinson, Reuben Moss and Toby Lawton along with Julia, created a stand depicting YFC activities to showcase the organisation. As part of the local displays put on by other rural organisations from across Staffordshire, the YFC stand was of great interest to both Her Majesty and The Duke of Edinburgh and the group were fortunate enough to meet and speak to both of them.
Looking back at that moment, Bryce Mackellar was asked to talk to Charlotte Smith on BBC Farming Today at the weekend. Bryce recalled it being a “surreal and fabulous day.” Her Majesty took a great interest in the display and particularly the silverware and what it was awarded for. The Duke of Edinburgh was keen to speak to dairy farmer, Reuben Moss about his dairy herd, and particularly the breed that they were, as he was a fan of Ayrshires.
County Organiser, Julia Taylor said “It truly was an honour to be asked to accompany the five members on this special day, we all felt very proud to represent YFC. Looking back now, we all realise even more what a great day it was and thank Staffordshire YFC for giving us the opportunity.”
The Queen made a very positive impact on the YFC movement and members, including past member, Mary Wilkinson (nee Cartmail) who was also fortunate to receive an award at The Royal Smithfield Show back in 1998, presented by Her Majesty. In more recent times, this year back in June, Staffordshire YFC lit a beacon as part of the Jubilee celebrations after the County Show which saw members all come together to recognise the momentous occasion.
As clubs across Staffordshire are now holding their Annual General Meetings at the start of the new membership year, there will be a moment of reflection and silence, to mark the passing of HM the Queen at the start of each meeting.
You can hear the full interview with Bryce by listening back on iPlayer (go to 21:52 mins into the programme https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001byfb). And you can read the report that Staffs YFC wrote about the occasion back in 2006 by clicking on this link https://staffsyoungfarmers.org.uk/day-queen-met…/
