CHRISTINE Knipe was recognised for her long service to the Southern District of Cumbria Young Farmers Clubs (YFC) at its 38th annual general meeting (AGM) in Kendal.

Mrs Knipe is entering her 30th year overseeing the district’s financial records as its independent examiner, and was surprised with a painting of a Herdwick sheep to mark the occasion.

Southern District president David Bowes, who opened the gathering, paid tribute following the death of ex-county advisor Peter Hadwin, saying he would be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Mr Bowes also discussed his personal highlights from the past year: the ‘field day’ of events hosted by Sedbergh YFC, when he was “absolutely blown away” by the standard of competitors; the 'junior rally' of fun and competition at Junction 36; and the community challenge, when all 10 of the district’s clubs carried out community work in their local areas.

Finally, he wished William Longmire, the incoming chairman, and John Garnett, the income president, the best of luck for their years in office.

A high-point for Richard Ladds, chairman of the Southern District, was the Northern Area Stockman Competition, hosted by Yorkshire YFC. Luke Hodgson from Lowick YFC was among the successes, taking 1st place in the junior stockman class.

Mr Ladds said that membership of Cumbria YFC had slightly decreased over the previous year, but commended Lowick YFC, which bucked the trend by registering an impressive 42 per cent increase in members.

Treasurer Stephen Rowlinson told the AGM the Southern District had registered a deficit of £13,000 in the past year due to a combination of factors, including lower takings at the Sedbergh YFC field day. However, he said new strategies were in place to ensure the added success of events next year, when he hoped finances would be healthier.