Northamptonshire young farmer wins best newcomer at achiever awards

Max Granger was named new member of the year at the YFC Achiever Awards at a glittering black-tie ceremony held at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham.

The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs welcomed more than 500 young farmers, supporters and alumni to celebrate the achievements of individuals shaping the future of rural Britain.

Max, who only joined Thrapston YFC in October last year, was recognised for his impressive impact in his first year – he was elected junior co-ordinator at his club’s AGM.

Judge Michael Nixon said: “We really enjoyed meeting Max and found it surprising this was only his first year in YFC. He was confident, enthusiastic, and inspiring. We loved his can-do attitude and could see why he’d been elected to be a junior co-ordinator so early on.”

From participating in public speaking and tug-of-war to excelling in national cookery competitions, Max has embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm.

Max said: “My first YFC meeting was laser tag. Everyone was so welcoming – I knew YFC was a place for me. I wish more people knew what YFC is really like. I’d always heard about Young Farmers but never had the courage to go. I’m so glad I did.

“It feels incredible to have won the new member of the year. As soon as I heard my name, and everyone erupted, it was amazing. I’m hoping to develop into further roles and my county chair is definitely a role model for me.”

Judges praised his dedication especially in the lead-up to the county rally, where he fitted in tug-of-war training sessions alongside his sporting commitments.

Recognising his leadership potential, Max was elected junior co-ordinator at the club’s AGM. He quickly became a trusted figure among younger members, offering support and acting as a liaison with the club’s panel.

The new member of the year category was judged by Michael Nixon, content creator and farmer, Martin Siemen, vice chair for external affairs at Rural Youth Europe and Kayleigh Lovegrove, vice chair of NFYFC’s membership and marketing steering group.

Eight awards were presented to young farmers from across the country.

James Nixey, chairman of NFYFC council, said: “I feel incredibly proud to represent such an amazing organisation that has so many outstanding individuals involved in it. Our 23,000 members make a huge impact on rural communities and the rural economy and we’re proud to champion the countryside and British farming.

“YFC offers so many opportunities to learn, grow and make a difference. Our winners are a brilliant example of what can be achieved when young people get involved and give back to their communities. Congratulations to all the winners.”

The awards, which were first launched in 2020, are a way of recognising and rewarding members of Young Farmers’ Clubs for the work they do in the community, for enterprising initiatives and for helping to develop other rural young people.

Nominations for the YFC Achiever Awards 2026 will be open to YFC members and supporters again next year.

More information about joining a local YFC can be found at https://www.nfyfc.org.uk/joining-yfc