THREE young farmers have really 'gone the extra mile' in their role as ambassadors for the profession, and raised more than £6,000 along the way.

Winifred Bullock, Bethany Candy, and Rachel Weaver – collectively known as the Cheshire Dairy Queen Team – have completed a gruelling 104-mile cycle ride, which they’ve dubbed ‘the Tour de Cheshire’, calling at farming business in Stretton, Knutsford, Nantwich, Middlewich, Congleton, Macclesfield, Sandbach, and Twemlow. 

The intrepid trio spread the challenge over two days, March 25 and 26, breaking-up the journey with a Young Farmers dinner dance on the Saturday evening, and visiting all the different Cheshire young farmers clubs along the way.  

They were also joined on several sections by members of the various farmers' clubs in a demonstration of Cheshire-wide solidarity. 

Northwich Guardian: Winne, Bethany and Rachel stop for a break at Abbey Lees Farm in KnutsfordWinne, Bethany and Rachel stop for a break at Abbey Lees Farm in Knutsford (Image: Winnie Bullock)

All funds raised will be going to help the Farming Community Network (FCN), who provide personal and business support to farmers and their families by means of a confidential helpline, which is accessed by more than 6,000 people employed in agriculture every year.

Winnie Bullock, whose family farm cattle and sheep, said: “It was definitely a challenge for all of us, and we’re all so glad we put in so many hours training.

“But we received so much support along the way, and that was a fantastic help.

“We’re so proud to be this year’s ambassadors for Young Farmers, and we’ve made it our mission to represent and promote to the best of our abilities.

"We strongly believe Cheshire YFC is a crucial organisation within the farming community, as without young farmers, the farming community would not be as strong as it is."

Cheshire Young Farmers supports its members with opportunities to acquire new knowledge, socialise with other members, and gain vital life skills.

Northwich Guardian: Bethany, Winnie and Rachel finished their challenge at Bidlea Dairy in Twemlow Bethany, Winnie and Rachel finished their challenge at Bidlea Dairy in Twemlow (Image: Winnie Bullock)

As a community, they support each in all sorts of ways, not least when it comes to dealing with the particular challenges the farming life throws their way.

The 24-year-old added: “Loneliness is one of the biggest issues facing young farmers. It can be quite isolating, sat alone on your tractor all day.

“Social media can be a good thing because it allows you to stay in touch with your friends.

“But then again, it can really make your focus on what you’re missing out on, and make you over-evaluate your choices.

“That can be quite bad for your mental health.”