FUNDRAISING efforts for the new headquarters of the Devon Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs have received a boost thanks to a winning bid on a handmade bench at a silent auction held at Devon County Show.

The auction was held for a handmade black powder coated steel bench featuring the Devon Young Farmers Club (DYFC) logo, made by engineer Tom Lee from Crediton and won by John Varley, Estates Director for Clinton Devon Estates.

Money raised from the sale of the bench will go towards the refurbishment of an abandoned pub in Cheriton Bishop which, when complete, will become the first wholly owned headquarters of the Federation.

Tom said: 'As a local engineer and having been a member of the Young Farmers for the past eight years, I was pleased to be able to contribute this hand crafted bench to the fundraising drive and delighted to discover that its new home will be in the beautiful grounds of Bicton Arena.'

John Varley, estates director for Clinton Devon Estates, who participated in a panel debate hosted by Devon Young Farmers at the county show, said: 'Clinton Devon Estates has two organic home farms in Devon and supports many tenant farmers across the county.

'We really appreciate the work of the Devon Young Farmers in supporting the next generation of farmers and it is a pleasure to be able to donate some money to the future of their organisation and I'm sure that our team at the Rolle Estate Office will enjoy the bench over the summer months.'

The building in Cheriton Bishop was chosen following a seven year search for appropriate premises, as it became clear that the Marsh Barton site could no longer properly fulfil members' needs.

Since fundraising began in September 2014, DYFC have managed to raise an impressive £70,000 of their £400,000 target.

Devon Young Farmers Chairman, Caroline Trude, said: 'So far, fundraising efforts for the new headquarters have been outstanding and have reflected the real passion of our members and their desire to take ownership over the federation's future.

'It's fantastic that we are receiving county-wide support for our plans from individuals and organisations alike and we hope the fundraising momentum continues.'