Norfolk's young farmers are among the finalists in a national awards scheme which celebrates dedication and achievement in the British countryside.

The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs’ (NFYFC) has shortlisted 40 finalists for the YFC Achiever Awards 2024, which will be presented at a ceremony in Birmingham on November 2.

They include Downham Market YFC, which is in the running for the Club of the Year title, while Abby Neale is shortlisted for New Member of the Year and David Long is a finalist in the Heart of YFC category.

David Long and Abby Neale of Norfolk Young Farmers are among the finalists in the national YFC Achiever Awards 2024David Long and Abby Neale of Norfolk Young Farmers are among the finalists in the national YFC Achiever Awards 2024 (Image: Norfolk YFC)

Norfolk YFC county chairman Ben Johnson said the nominations were richly deserved by young people who "all play huge a part in the Norfolk YFC community". 

He said Downham Market is a young club with several new members who "have all gotten stuck into YFC life, from having great attendance at club meetings and competing at county level with members even going through to eastern area competitions".

Downham Market club chairman Abby Neal is also shortlisted individually, for the New Member of the Year award.

"Since joining Abby has thrown herself into all aspects of YFC, becoming vice-chair of the club just a few months after joining and now elected club chair," said Mr Johnson. "Abby has also gotten involved at county level with competitions and joining the county officer team stepping into the role of press officer and supporting all events."

Meanwhile, Heart of YFC award finalist David Long is described as an "oracle" of YFC after more than 15 years with the club, including 10 years in Norfolk. 

He has been "heavily involved" Wymondham YFC, including as club chairman and club leader,  and is also described as a "true advocate" who is passionate about the organisation’s future - demonstrated through his support of his club and county.

Mr Johnson added: "Dave has an amazing passion for stock judging and has represented Norfolk at both area and nationally year after year."

This is the only category determined by a public online vote, which closes on September 1.

Mr Long will be vying for votes against contenders from Carmarthenshire, Clwyd, Oxfordshire and Northumberland. To vote, go to www.nfyfc.org.uk/heart-of-yfc-award-finalists-2024,