As part of our regular series of profiles on the region's Young Farmers' Club (YFC) members, new county press secretary FRANCES ROBERSON proves you don't need to be a farmer to enjoy club life.

I grew up on a farm and, although I moved away from agriculture through school and university, it was always something I missed. Now I feel I'm returning to my roots.

But I was initially reluctant to join Young Farmers, despite the stories of it being good fun.

After returning from university, my parents were fed up of my being in the house after work all the time, so my mother forced me along to the county AGM last November, on the pretence that if I didn't pick a club, I would be severely embarrassed. My mother was a member of Watton and Attleborough YFC, and has also held the role of county press officer. My father was a member of North Walsham YFC and served not only as their chairman, but as the chairman of Norfolk YFC too.

My chosen club became Wymondham, after realising that although it wasn't my local club, there was someone there whom I already knew. I went to my first meeting apprehensive and nervous, however they did not let me down.

I left that evening with a huge smile on my face and the knowledge that I had made the right choice. After one month I was already getting stuck in, helping to organise the club social and attending panto rehearsals to see what all the fuss was about. Within my first five months I had been elected onto my club committee as rally secretary – a steep learning curve for someone who had never been to the rally before.

Another five months later, and here I am, writing my first article as the county press secretary. Each week I will look to inform you all of the hectic goings-on within Norfolk YFC, what charity events are happening, where we are getting involved in the wider community, and of course continuing with the ever-informative fortnightly profiles.

Last Saturday was our Annual YFC Beer Festival. Many thanks to Dann's Dairy for lending us the use of their field in North Tuddenham. We had a fantastic selection of local beers and ales, along with an increase in the variety of ciders as requested by members. The Beer Festival was a resounding success, with over 200 people through the gates.

On behalf of all of the Young Farmers of Norfolk, I really want to thank the committee for organising such a great evening for us all.

PROFILE:

Name: Frances Roberson.

Age: 22.

Occupation: Hospitality coordinator.

Location: The Great Hospital, Norwich.

Club: Wymondham.

How long have you been a YFC member? 10 months.

Wymondham YFC meets at Lime Tree Avenue Community Centre on Monday evenings. For more information on Norfolk Young Farmers, contact 01603 731307.