John and Courtney ready to lead the East

On the 17^th of March 2026, SAYFC’s East Region held their annual assembly at Newtonmore Bowling Club, to elect a new committee and review the success of the previous year.

After a successful term, outgoing chair Lucy Orr stepped down, with John Paton of Bathgate JAC taking on the role. Courtney Bell, from Reston JAC, was elected as vice chair following a vote.

Looking ahead, John paid tribute to his predecessor and set out his priorities for the year: “Continuing on from Lucy’s successful year I’m aiming to keep pulling the east region together through supporting each other’s events at club, district and regional level.

“I am also looking forward to attending club events across the region and to see how different clubs run events and provide any help or advice to members. Another key aim I have for the upcoming year is to keep young farmers fun for members and continuing the great attendance across regional events.”

In addition to electing the new committee, several clubs were recognised for their contributions throughout the past year.

Ettrick & Lauderdale JAC secured first place in the East Regional Recruitment Trophy, with East Lothian JAC and Forfar JAC achieving second and third places respectively.

The East Regional Participation Trophy was presented to Strathearn JAC, while West Fife YFC and Banks of Tay YFC were awarded second and third place honours.

On the 29^th of April the Region also held their Club of the Year competition. Well done to all clubs who participated and presented on the day. It was brilliant to see how much members across the East have been up to throughout the year.

Peeblesshire JAC took top spot, with last year’s national and British winners Strathearn JAC taking second place and Kinross JAC coming in third. As Strathearn competed in the final last year, it will be Peeblesshire & Kinross who will go on to compete in the National competition, the winner of which will be announced at the grand prize giving at the Royal Highland Show.