YOUNG farmers pumped more than £400,000 into Torbay's tourism economy as they returned to the resort at the weekend for their South West Convention.

Nick Creasey, county organiser for Devon Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, met managers and owners of bars and clubs which made the young farmers welcome during their weekend stay.

These included Mojo's bar, Cider Press, Tennysons, R&Bs, the Green Ginger, and the London Inn, all of which reported excellent trade and very few problems apart from the volume occasionally needing to be turned down.

Mr Creasey said: "It is estimated that well in excess of £400,000 was injected into the local economy over the weekend."

Police Sergeant Jon Phillips said: "The vast majority of Young Farmers visiting Torbay behaved in a very good manner.

"This is in no small measure down to the good communication and planning between South West Area of Young Farmers, Devon and Cornwall Constabulary and the license holders of Torbay. I hope the National Young Farmers can do as well when they visit Torbay later this year."

Richard Clarke, from the Cider Press Bar, said the Young Farmers were absolutely brilliant during the weekend.

"They were singing and chanting and having a good time. This is like their headquarters when they are here.

"We had a good time and the council should be going for things like this. It is just what we needed after the winter," said Mr Clarke.

The weekend concluded at the Palace Theatre, Paignton, with the South West Drama final competition.

The Devon Federation of Young Farmers were 'proud' to be named overall champions for the weekend.

A cheque was presented to Torbay Young Carers from money raised during the weekend.

Kim Merriot, who collected the money on behalf of the charity, said: "We are very grateful to Young Farmers. This money will go towards young people in Torbay having a well-earned break from their caring responsibilities."