Andrew Neilson, Avondale YFC Winner of the inaugural Young Farmer of the Year Competition:

“It’s an amazing feeling to be the first person ever to win it; there was such a high standard of competition. SAYFC is an incredible organisation and it’s going from strength to strength. As the industry gets more challenging, a lot of it is about moving with the times. The six finalists are all enterprising young farmers who will rise to the challenge.”

David Lawrie, Kinross National chair of SAYFC

“Our Brexit survey showed that young farmers are concerned about access to markets, finance, access to land and coming into a thriving industry. People do see it as an opportunity too. I have a little hesitation about what’s going on at the moment. It could just be the same but different, with bureaucracy coming from Brussels to London and Edinburgh. If only politicians could work better together, but that’s just politics.”

Charlotte Mortimer, Argyll, Strachur YFC

“I’ve seen the eventing, stock judging, pony games and grand prix. I’m a student at SRUC in Ayr, studying agriculture. I’m in my first year. I’m really enjoying being a student. It’s been quite a positive show and we’ve had a lot of engagement with non-members, with quite a lot coming in and asking questions.

“When I graduate I’ve got a family farm and might do something in consultancy. I’ve not decided but I find grass really interesting.”

Abbie Sturgeon, Maybole YFC Ayr committee member:

“I live on a farm and work as a clerical assistant for the council. I joined young farmers four years ago and being a member has given me so many great opportunities. I’ve met so many people and the confidence you gain is unbelievable. I did a speech about our club for the Club of the Year competition. Meeting new people and staying in new people’s houses really helps too. I don’t think I could ever not farm.”

Shona McHarg Ayr committee secretary:

“I’m a travel consultant with Thomas Cook and I stay on a dairy farm milking 80-90 cows. We have sheep too.

“I help out when I come home. There’s always a job on a day off! I’d like my own farm with sheep and a goat.

“Milk has had some price challenges and even if there aren’t always so many people coming up to take on farms, there are always people interested.”

Craig Brown, Howgate Peebles YFC and Lothians treasurer:

“There are definitely up-and-coming young members. There’s been a bit of an age-gap [in membership] but the future is looking bright.

“There is a bit of uncertainty with Brexit but there are a few looking to diversify ideas. This year we’ll see a difference in the fat lamb trade: the pound has been strong and hopefully it will be this year. Hopefully deals outside the EU can keep the price up.”