Seskinore YFC celebrate their 75th anniversary

The evening was filled with reminiscing and laughter as past, present and indeed future members enjoyed a night of nostalgia.

Seskinore YFC were delighted to have UFU president Ivor Ferguson as guest speaker for the evening.

Mr Ferguson reminded members that “once a young farmer, always a young farmer” and he encouraged members to take part in the various competitions as “what you put in, is what you get out from the organisation”.

Also, in attendance on the night was YFCU president, Zita McNaugher who reminded members that in order to be: “The best in the west, you must take care of business, encourage members, develop skills and work as a team.”

The club were delighted to have Gordan Aiken, High Sheriff of County Tyrone and his wife Yvonne. Seskinore YFC were honoured to have founding member James Riddell attend the anniversary dinner.

The foresight of James and the other founding members of the club is to be admired and James encouraged members to continue participating in the various competitions and rising through the ranks.

He commended the club on the success it has achieved over the past 75 years and wished Seskinore YFC continuing success in the future.

The club was originally formed in 1945 when a meeting under the presidency of Mr John Barr was addressed by Mr McAllister, assistant organiser of the Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster.

At the meeting, John Barr was elected as president, with Robert Bratton and David McCracken, vice presidents, Sadie Barker and Mervyn Loane, leaders, 
Ruby Barker and Peter Murray, secretaries, and Bill Bratton was appointed as treasurer.

The first premises of Seskinore YFC was known as ‘the hut’ which was purchased in 1946 and as the club thrived and developed, a new home was required.

In 1970 a site was purchased from John McAllister, beside McClintock Primary School which remains Seskinore YFC’s club hall where the club currently have over 60 active members participating and achieving highly at county and Northern Ireland level.

Seskinore YFC would like to thank all sponsors for their kind donations which helped to make the night such a success.