The day proved particularly memorable for Pontfaen YFC, after the club was named as one of just three finalists for Young Farmers’ Club of the Year, sponsored by KW Feeds.

Pontfaen was shortlisted alongside Drigg YFC and Penrith Young Farmers, both from North Cumbria, in recognition of the club’s commitment, achievements and contribution to its members and wider community. As a finalist, Pontfaen received a special box of goodies from the award sponsors.

The biggest success of the day, however, came when Pontfaen member Sian Healey was announced as the winner of Young Farmers’ Club Senior Member of the Year, sponsored by The Farming Community Network.

Sian, has dedicated 18 years to the Young Farmers’ movement, giving her time generously at club, county and national level, while remaining a passionate advocate for agriculture.

Although her family left their own farm in 2010, Sian has maintained strong links with farming, regularly helping her uncle and cousin with their sheep enterprise during busy periods including lambing and harvest. Her practical experience, combined with success in stockjudging and carcass competitions at Welsh and national level, has given her a strong understanding of livestock quality, food production and commercial farming.

Sian now uses her experience to support the next generation, training and mentoring younger YFC members for competitions and helping them develop both their practical skills and confidence. She is widely praised as an excellent role model within the club and actively encourages junior members to get involved in events and competitions. This support has helped members achieve success at the highest level, including Pontfaen’s Show Choir, which reached the National Finals and came away with an impressive second place.

Sian also plays a leading role in the club's community fundraising. She is the co-ordinator of Pontfaen YFC's Illuminated Charity Tractor & 4x4 Run, an event which brings together the whole club and wider community and has raised more than £35,000 for charity over the past five years.

Her commitment to farm safety began at a young age, when she won the First Aid section of the Farm Safety competition at just 10 years old. More recently, she has helped secure funding to provide ATV training opportunities for YFC members.

A passionate supporter of Welsh agriculture, Sian continues to represent farming through competitions, community initiatives and advocacy, making her an excellent role model for younger members of the movement.

Speaking after receiving the award, Sian said: “I’m so honoured to have won Young Farmers’ Club Senior Member of the Year 2026 at the Farmers Guardian Young British Farming Awards. Heading into my 19th year of YFC, to have my journey recognised in this way means so much.

“It was a lovely trip to Yorkshire and the most amazing way to start my final year as a YFC member. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way, I’m incredibly grateful.”

Pontfaen YFC would like to thank the organisers The Farmers Guardian and the sponsors of the event Massey Feeds and Harpers Feeds and KW Feeds and The Farming Community Network for sponsoring the awards.