Cumbria young farmers celebrated during debate competition

This included clubs based in Lowick near Ulverston and the Kent Estuary near Grange-over-Sands. 

The MACE debating tournament was held at the George Hotel in Penrith and gave a chance for competitors to have their say on a wide-ranging list of topics.

The Lowick YFC debate team (Image: Cumbria YFC)

The organisers said: "The audience were kept well entertained throughout the evening with all those competing showing a great deal of skill and flair for debating as well as an in-depth knowledge of the topics discussed.

"Judges Matthew Burbury and Angela Cornthwaite were very impressed with the standard of debate and commented that competitors had spoken knowledgeably and confidently on the topics, making for an enjoyable evening."

The debates covered topics such as whether the high street is dead, whether it would be good to be famous, whether space exploration is a waste of money and whether time is up for the village pub.

The Raughton Head YFC team of Euan Bulman, Emma McCune, Kate Rowland, Robbie Tuer and Phil Potts took first place, with Kent Estuary YFC finishing second.

Lowick YFC were placed third, with the Skelton contingent just behind them. 

Ted Fearon, who donated the 'Ted Fearon Cup for After Dinner Speaking and Debating,' was delighted to be at the competition to present his trophy and congratulate competitors on an excellent night of debate.

Maisie and Zara were two of the best young farmers in south Cumbria (Image: Cumbria YFC)

This coincided with the finalists in the Member of the Year for farmers aged 17 and under competition being interviewed by judges Frank Gate and Roger Bainbridge.

The competitors each produced a synopsis form, delivered a presentation on their achievements and interests, and took part in a formal interview.

The results were close with Maisie from Crook YFC placing first and Drigg YFC's Billy finishing second.

Jessica from Greysouthen YFC took third place and fourth place went to Zara from Lowick YFC.

The first three teams and competitors from all the competitions will now go onto compete at the Northern Area weekend, hosted by Yorkshire YFC, on March 2 and 3 in Scarborough.