Buckinghamshire Young Farmer to lead rural youth organisation ​

A member of Buckinghamshire County Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs James Nixey has been elected as the new Chair of The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC) and will represent more than 23,000 rural young people across England and Wales.

Mr Nixey, who is a self-employed electrician from Buckinghamshire and has always been involved in the family's farm, has been a part of the NFYFC officer team for two years, having held the Vice Chair position. Jessica Rose from Nottinghamshire and Alex McMenemy from County Durham will also join the officer team as Vice Chairs, with all three members taking seats on NFYFC's Board of Management.

Mr Nixey, 28, is a Club Leader for Princes Risborough YFC, the club he first joined as a member in 2008. He is also a Buckinghamshire Council Rep and held the position of national Chair of NFYFC's Membership and Marketing Steering Group in 2024-25.

Mr Nixey played a key role in boosting membership numbers in both his club and county, reaching the highest levels seen in recent years following the Covid pandemic. His efforts led to the county winning the prestigious Merrick Burrell Tankard at the NFYFC AGM, recognising it as one of the smallest counties to achieve the biggest growth.

NFYFC's Council elections took place on 23 February 2025 in Warwickshire, where Mr Nixey vowed to champion the vital role of YFC in rural communities throughout his year in office.

NFYFC Chair of Council 2025-26 James Nixey said:

"I'm incredibly proud to be elected as the new Chair of NFYFC's Council and it will be my privilege to represent 575 YFCs across England and Wales and more than 23,000 members. 

"Our organisation is made up of thousands of volunteers who give up hours of their time to create safe spaces for rural young people to get together every week.

"I have been an active member of Princes Risborough YFC in Buckinghamshire for the past 17 years. During this time, I've gained valuable experience in growing membership numbers, which I plan to apply on a national scale.

"While my family has always been involved in farming, I am not a farmer, and I hope my YFC journey will inspire others to join from non-farming backgrounds. You don't have to be a farmer to be a Young Farmer and everyone is welcome to join and be part of this amazing organisation.

"The benefits of being part of YFC are immense, and I want to showcase them far and wide – so more people can gain skills, build friendships, and create unforgettable experiences."

More than 80 members gathered in Warwickshire to elect the new officer team and pass motions that affect the running of the organisation.

The NFYFC Council is made up of YFC members, associate members and co-options from across England and Wales and is elected by YFC members to represent their views.

Through steering groups, the NFYFC Council also shape the programmes of work at NFYFC - planning events, competitions, projects and training for members.

During the Saturday of the Council weekend, YFC members also met at NFYFC's annual Summit to discuss plans for the year.

The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC) is one of the largest youth organisations in the UK. It heads a nationwide body of 575 Young Farmers' Clubs (YFCs) located throughout England and Wales dedicated to supporting young people in agriculture and the countryside. There are more than 23,000 members aged between 10 and 28 who all have a unique opportunity, through YFC, to develop skills, work with the local community, travel abroad, take part in a varied competitions programme and build friendships through social activities. Many of our associate members get involved in the running of the clubs and NFYFC. For more information about NFYFC, visit www.nfyfc.org.uk. @NFYFC on social media