‘Now is the time for everyone to pull together to beat Covid-19’

Zita McNaugher, YFCU president, said: "The government advice is to stay safe and to stay at home. We are also being advised to wash our hands more and social distance if we have to go out for essentials – please do this."

“Firstly, I hope that you are all staying safe. Secondly, I promise not to sing in this video but thank you to everyone who liked and shared our young farmers’ ‘Stay At Home video’.

“I hoped it cheered you up but also that you listened to the message and our spending much time at home.

“Now you’ll all probably be aware we’ve had to cancel all our upcoming events and competition – it wasn’t an easy decision to make but it will ensure our member safety.

“Our 90th dinner anniversary now has a new date of  September 26 in Titanic Belfast.

“Our arts festival gala is not going ahead in the Millennium Forum as they are unable to offer us an alternative date so if you bought tickets for the event please contact the Forum to get your refund.

“The competition will go ahead we’re just not sure where and when, but I will keep us posted.

“Our exchange programme for this summer has had to be cancelled which I know is disappointing for those that passed the interview.

“Our AGM and conference will not be going ahead in April but it will take place later in the year when it’s safe to do so.

“Now, I know it’s very disappointing that we have had to cancel a lot of upcoming events and competitions, but I have been extremely proud of all those members pulling together to help and support our local communities in this uncertain time.

“It’s great to see us out and about in local rural communities and I would encourage young farmers to keep doing this but obviously stay safe.

“I’d also like to thank our members that are key essential workers those nurses, doctors, farmers and retail workers all out there working to ensure we are cared for and that we have food on our tables – thank you but please do remember to stay safe.

“The government advice is to stay safe and to stay at home. We are also being advised to wash our hands more and social distance if we have to go out for essentials – please do this.

“Now as you are spending more time at home you may feel isolated and it may start to have an impact on your mental health so please do ensure that you stay connected with your friends, family and your Young Farmers’ Club through all the social media, facetime and other video conferencing apps.

“With all this technology you really have no excuse not to stay connected so please do.

“In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns all our headquarter’s staff are available and working from home.

“Please stay safe and stay at home.”