Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) members have elected Glarryford YFC member Peter Alexander as their new president.
More than 130 members attended the virtual AGM on Saturday (April 10) for the rural youth organisation.
Commenting on his election, Peter Alexander said: “I’m delighted to be elected president of the YFCU. I would like to thank Zita for the excellent work she has done as president over the last two years.
“Especially over the last 12 months during the Covid-19 pandemic, as it has been difficult on all members.
“I look forward to actively getting involved with the new presidential team to help support and work towards new challenges and progress the YFCU for future generations.”
Stuart Mills won the vote for deputy president coming up against Andrew Patton (Newtownards YFC) and Hannah Kirkpatrick (Kilraughts YFC).
There was also a tight race for the vice-president roles with eight names forward for four roles.
Ultimately, Richard Beattie (Finvoy YFC), Hannah Kirkpatrick (Kilraughts Young Farmers), and Lynne Montgomery (City of Derry YFC) were re-elected and Adam Alexander (Kilrea YFC) was added as a new face to the team.
Outgoing president Zita McNaugher congratulated those elected and wished them the best with their term.
“The past 12 months have been challenging for all members of the YFCU, but I am extremely proud of the way our members, staff and judges have adapted,” she said.
“We have continued to compete and meet virtually, and while it hasn’t been a normal year, it certainly has been memorable.
“I’d like to thank all our members and staff team for all their hard work and enthusiasm, and support. I look forward to seeing the YFCU restarting under the direction of Peter and his new team.”
Other elections on the day included Ballywalter YFC member Kristina McKeag as the new chair of the Programme and Development Committee and Glarryford YFC member Jessica Reid as the new chair of AERA Committee.
During the meeting, honorary treasurer Bob Esler told members the organisation had seen a “significant reduction” in revenue from events that were either cancelled or postponed over the last year.
Esler highlighted the importance of the organisation’s core funders and sponsors and thanked them for their continued support during the pandemic during his address.
To add further pressure, clubs are also understood to have experienced around a 25% fall in new member recruitment over the last 12 months.