Farming Talk: My whirlwind year as Shropshire YFC chairman

I've been a member for over 10 years, but this last year has really blown it all to the extreme. I've met brilliant people, I've had some amazing experiences, learnt a heck of a lot and not to mention travelled the world!

Since my last column I and 22 of our members from across the county travelled to China to walk 60km of The Great Wall across 10 days. It was an incredible experience for us all, and not only did we get to experience one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but we got to do it together.

The trip wasn't just about walking – we visited some interested places – Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, The Summer Palace and the Olympic Bird's Nest Stadium. We watched acrobatic, operatic and kung fu shows, sampled local beer and 'fire water', delighted the Chinese with our wonders of karaoke and generally had an awesome time.

Sections of the wall were non-existent in many places and required balance, strength and stamina. There were steep climbs involved across varied terrain, and walking would be up to five hours a day.

I would urge any member to take part in any travel opportunities with the organisation, as not only is it a chance to see the world, but with like-minded and polite, fun people, who are always up for the craic, wherever you are.

Across the 19 clubs in the county our 900-plus members have been busy hosting dinner dances, entertaining new members, and following their AGMs. New officers have been preparing weekly action-packed programmes for the up and coming months.

I must congratulate all members who competed in national competitions recently. It's a fair achievement in itself to get there, so you all should feel extremely proud of yourselves. Hats off to Alberbury YFC who came first in the senior debating speaking competition. Also well done to Charlie Bourne for getting the Best Speaker. It really goes to show that all the hard work that you have put in was really worth it.

So as I pass the chain of office on to Joe Hamer on November 10, I wish him all the very best. I have had such an incredible and memorable year as chairman, one I will never forget.

It's a really challenging position to be in and I have tried my very best to be everywhere and do the right thing by everyone. I would encourage anyone to undertake this position as it is so rewarding. Thank you again to everyone who has supported and helped me – I honestly could not have done it without you.

Here's to SFYFC – what a brilliant organisation it is!

Rachael Parry is retiring chairman of Shropshire YFC