History of Bridgnorth YFC

On December 1st 1928, "The Calf Club" was founded. It was strictly men only, as women didn't join until the early 1940s. By then there were 30 members. Calf's shows were held annually as was the Dinner Dance at The Swan Hotel in Bridgnorth. Annual Ploughing Matches started in 1945 with lots of horses and few tractors.

The 1950s included sports, competitions and exchanges. Membership was now over 100. Stock Judging competitions were popular. Three members represented National on major exchange programmes overseas. The 1960s continued much the same.

The 1970s saw the Club raising money for charity, have a wide range of talks, visits and sporting outings. In 1978 the 50th Celebrations were held at the old market and there were over 40 members. In the 1980s the programme was very active with annual exchanges, talks, demonstrations and a hectic social diary. The 60th Celebrations were held at Oldington Farm.

The 1990s saw charity fundraising and social events take priority over county competitions. It held an extensive programme with meetings at Swancote Country Club.

Six years into the new Millennium, we are still enjoying many of the traditional activities including ploughing matches, dinner dances and competitions. In addition, 2003 was the 75th anniversary of the Club. 400 guests (past and present members) celebrated the past, present and future of Bridgnorth YFC on 11th July 2003 at Swancote Farm. Special thanks go to the 75th Anniversary Organising Committee including Simon Rickhuss (Chairman), Ed Farquharson (Secretary), Nigel Davies, Hannah Farquharson, Claire Gill, Sarah Harrington, James Lee, Liz Needs, Kath Norgrove, Phil Norgrove, Gill Young and all the others who assisted in making this such a successful night.