Two more Norfolk Countrysiders clubs are set to re-open next month as the youth organisation continues its post-Covid revival.

The Countrysiders, the junior branch of Norfolk's Young Farmers' Clubs (YFC), aimed at children aged 10–16, was hit hard during the pandemic, with 15 clubs closing.

Since then, clubs have reopened in Harleston, North Elmham and Wymondham, and a new club was successfully launched in Holt in May.

Now, the resurgence is continuing with the relaunch of clubs in Dereham and Downham Market.

Downham Market Countrysiders will hold their first meeting on September 10 at West Dereham Village Hall, while Dereham's first meeting will be at Garvestone and Thuxton Village Hall on September 30.

Norfolk YFC chairman Ben Johnson said: "I am delighted to see that Dereham and Downham Market Countrysiders Clubs are re-opening, and being run by members from their senior YFC.

"Countrysiders Clubs provide a pivotal role in young people’s social life outside of the school environment, although still allowing them to develop skills that will benefit them in future life - not only when they join YFC later on, but in further life and career options.

"All of our Countrysiders Clubs and members embrace the values of YFC of 'fun, learning and achievement', whether through their fortnightly meetings, competition days and the wider networking opportunities, which can sometimes be missing in rural areas."

Both clubs will meet fortnightly during term time, and meetings will be run by volunteers, overseen by the Norfolk federation's county office.

Norfolk YFC now hopes more clubs can be reopened across the county with the appointment of a new Countrysiders development officer. For more information about the role, see www.norfolkyfc.co.uk/cs-development-officer.