History

The Clubs Early Years

The club was first founded in February 1944 at a meeting which had been called by Mr SR Wilkins, organiser for Brecon and Radnor YFC. Mr William Evans the Agricultural Organiser, Miss I. Williams, Cwmdu and Mr JS Davies, MBE, Builth (Agent for Bibby’s) spoke about the movement. The first officials were: Club Leader, Mr J. Jones; Chairman, Mr G Samuel; Secretary Mr Rex Jones.

In 1946 in spite of petrol rationing they had their first Club trip to Western Super Mare, and also organised a shearing match. Mr JS Davies MBE was the President of the Club for many years. The Club met fortnightly at the Council School and was very active. Apart from the usual talks and demonstrations particular attention was given to girls activities such as Soft Toy Making and Sweet Making. There were also several inter club meetings, usually a Quiz and Social, with Llanwrtyd, Beulah, Troedrhiwdaler and Erwood. They were keen competitors and in 1948 with 29 members, competed in the Rally, winning the Public Speaking and Craftwork Competitions. They exhibited their craftwork at the Bridgend National Eisteddfod. Builth members also competed in the first County Drama Competition.

The Club was also highly active in County affairs with Mr Rex Jones becoming the first Builth Wells YFC member to become County Chairman . (Indeed Mr Rex Jones also became County President from 1998 to 2000) However, attendance and interest dwindled and the Club was closed early in 1952.

The closure of the Club was short lived and the Club was reformed in November 1954, although it did take many years for the club to regain its enthusiasm.

Achievements

Builth Wells YFC has had many successes throughout its History. The club has won the Brecknock YFC's Winter, Rally and Overall trophy on many occasions.

The club is however at its best when on stage. The club has represented Brecknock at the all Wales YFC drama, entertainment and pantomime finals on many occasions. The club has won the Wales Entertainment competition once (2005) and the Pantomime competition twice (1996 & 2006). In 1996 the club went on to win the national pantomime competition in Torquay.

The club was also Wales YFC's Club of the Year in 1995 and won the Community (weekend) Challenge competition in 2004.