The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) has been forced to distance itself from an unofficial ‘convention’ taking place in Blackpool this weekend amid fears renegade revellers could further damage its reputation.
The rural youth organisation took the unprecedented decision to cancel all future conventions after trouble-makers marred the 2018 event with anti-social behaviour.
However, the decision was divisive and saw leadership face off a no-confidence vote in October.
‘DIY AGM’
More than 5,000 young people – many of which are understood to be members of NFYFC – have indicated online that they will attend an unsanctioned ‘DIY’ event taking place this weekend.
The official convention, which got out of hand, was attended by around 6,000 people.
However, police this weekend will take a no-nonsense approach towards anti-social behaviour. In previous years, rather than arresting trouble-makers, officers would simply cut off the person’s wristbands and sent them home.
This year, they will instead use their full powers – including the ability to put those who cause disorder in a cell overnight.
In a statement, a spokesman said: “NFYFC is not organising or sanctioning any events that are being hosted in Blackpool from May 3-5, 2019.
Any individuals who are in Blackpool over the bank holiday weekend and are wearing YFC or NFYFC branded clothing do not represent the organisation.
“As this is not an NFYFC or YFC event, the use of the NFYFC logo is not sanctioned to be put on display or to be worn during that weekend in Blackpool. Action will be taken against any individual that brings the YFC or NFYFC name into disrepute.
“The local authorities have been made aware that this is not an NFYFC event and no one from the National Federation will be present during the weekend to provide any assistance.”
However, the event’s founder John Houseman said the idea was to try and prove that the trouble had only been caused by a small minority.
“It is important we show what the majority of young farmers are really like,” he said.
“It is purely because of a minority of members last year who spoiled it, ruined our reputation and got the event cancelled.
“We are here this weekend to show [the National Federation] its decision was wrong and to show the public we’re a great bunch of people.
“As a way of giving a bit back this year, due to there being no attendance fee we are going to raise money for Air Ambulance UK and Blackpool RNLI – please donate generously to two great causes.”
At the time of publication, more than £5,000 had been raised for the two charities.
