Tug of war: Melton Young Farmers Club ladies win national silver medal

The team was formed from within Melton Young Farmers Club last year to help with a recruitment drive and proved an instant hit, winning the regional title on their way to finishing third nationally.

Buoyed by their success, the girls decided to continue their training, and after six weeks of toil returned to the National YFC Tug of War Finals at Tenbury.

All teams had their work cut out on a rock-hard ground baked by the long hot summer

The Melton team took time to find their rhythm, but once they had it, there was no stopping them, winning every pull in their heat.

They maintained their momentum all the way to the final where they finished a well-deserved second.

A club spokesman said: “They did the club very proud and are looking forward to a well-earned rest.

“They simply could not do this without their coaches, so huge thanks goes to Dave Meakin, Tony Allen, Michelle Kent and Joe Fytche.

“The team would once again like to thank NewK Fabrications, Front Row Construction, DPL Steel buildings, PSR and Richard Riley for the incredibly kind donations towards our fantastic training aid, the rig.

“Another shout to our very kind clothing sponsors Belvoir Sawmill and CJ Development Midlands, and also Shoby Poultry, Space Outdoors, Penny Williams and Belvoir Sawmill for sponsoring the ladies’ transport to Tenbury.

“The list is endless for all of those who have continuously supported us to achieve such fantastic results.”