COUNTRY COLUMN: Gillian Dosson with all the latest from Somerset's Young Farmers Clubs

"Members competed in the county finals of the Brainstrust and situations vacant public speaking competitions held last week at the county offices in Westonzoyland. 

A total of 24 members from across the federation honed their debating skills.

Topics ranged from ‘Does the panel believe that dairy farmers work much harder than arable farmers?’, ‘Should farmers be allowed to ban dogs from their farms?’, ‘Should men get paternity leave from work?’ and ‘Is the Grand National cruel to horses and should be banned?’ 

These discussions on a wide variety of topics led to an enjoyable and entertaining evening.

The competition was ably judged by Eric Parker, the current Somerset YFC chairman. 

The judges described the competition as a ‘drive and arrive’ competition, meaning that members did not have to prepare too much in advance by writing speeches. 

They said that in effect Brainstrust is a constructive conversation. The judges also commented on the high standard achieved with Ilminster YFC's team of Joshua Fincham, John Wakely, Tom Pope and Matt Cox lifting the trophy.

On the same evening members were given the opportunity to practise their Job Interview technique in the Situations Vacant Competition. 
This was judged by two business leaders Ann Dyer of Blackmore Farm, Cannington and Philip Hardwill from PH Hardwill Structural Engineers and Building Contractors. 

The judges were very impressed by the candidates saying they spoke articulately and would have landed the job. Charlotte Scott from Rodway YFC won, with Sarah Champion of Polden Hills YFC coming second. 

The county will be awarding Skills certificates to all members participating in recent public speaking competitions to be presented at the member’s council in March. 

We wish all the teams the best of luck for the area rounds and also to Polden Hills YFC who are competing in the After Diner Speaking finals this Sunday in Westonzoyland."