MORE than 1,000 members of the Young Farmers organisation will be descending on Torbay this weekend for their annual South West convention.

The highlight of the three-day event, which runs from Friday to Sunday, will include a Question Time-style debate on issues at the heart of rural living.

Nick Creasy, Devon Young Farmers county organiser, said he was 'delighted' to present a panel of speakers for the debate on Saturday.

That panel includes John Lee, chairman of the SW Sustainable Food and Farming board, Dr Stuart Burgess, chairman of the Countryside Agency and the Government's Rural Advocate, Andrew Slade, executive director at the South West Regional Development Agency.

They will be questioned by senior National Farmers Union figures and National Young Farmer Club leaders during the debate.

Mr Creasy said: "Past events have been incredibly well received by our members and we've had another great response this year.

"The weekend will be a celebration of all the activity which takes place throughout the year as well as providing us with an opportunity to share ideas and discuss important industry issues."

The weekend has been sponsored by Mole Valley Farmers and the 1,200 young farmers will also take part in public speaking and sporting competitions during the annual weekend-long convention.

The events will culminate with the 'hotly contested' Drama and Senior Ambassador of the Year category finals being held at the Palace Theatre, Paignton.

Money will also be raised for Torbay Young Carers during the weekend.

The YFC will then return to Torquay in April for their annual meeting.