Matt Baker elected president of Young Farmers’ Clubs
Sunday, 15 May 2011 21:23 Written by Kim Bullen Last Updated on Friday, 03 June 2011 16:31
TV presenter Matt Baker has been elected to serve as president of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC).
The Countryfile and One Show star was voted into the post by members at the organisation’s annual general meeting held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on 8 May.
Born in Durham and raised on the family sheep farm, Matt has been chosen by YFC members for his long-standing close connection with YFC through his mother Janice, who is Durham YFC’s county organiser, his love of the countryside, and his farming and agricultural expertise.
Speaking after his election Matt Baker said: “As a farmer’s son from the Durham dales, the countryside is a big part of who I am and so to be the president of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, celebrating that connection with our landscape and getting out there and doing stuff within it, is a great honour.
“I’ve attended many YFC events over the years so I’m very aware of the important role Young Farmers’ Clubs play and the many opportunities they offer young people in rural areas, as well as the huge amount YFC’s young volunteers give back to their local communities and other charities.
“There is a new appreciation of our British countryside, and agriculture and farming are changing rapidly. Young farmers are the future, and Young Farmers’ Clubs members have the energy and enthusiasm to drive this industry forward.”
NFYFC chairman James Chapman said: “We are delighted to welcome Matt to Young Farmers’ Clubs. Our members are really excited to have him as part of the YFC family. Matt has all the qualities I would expect from YFC members – he’s enthusiastic and motivated about the industry and rural life and his appeal and ability to connect with young people make him an ideal ambassador for the organisation.”
Matt takes over from retiring national president Lionel Hill MBE who was elected life vice president in recognition of his services to NFYFC and the YFC federations. Lionel had served as NFYFC president for the past five years.
