MORE than 1,000 Young Farmers from across the South West region are due to attend the South West Young Farmers' Conference, sponsored by Mole Valley Farmers, taking place this weekend, from Friday, March 5 to Sunday, March 7.

The weekend will consist of a programme of topical events and issue-led debates, interactive activities and competitions.

It will take place in Torquay.

The highlight will be a "Question Time" style debate taking place tomorrow, Saturday, March 6, where a panel of regional representatives will discuss rural issues affecting the farming youth of today.

The panel includes Dr Stuart Burgess, chairman of the Countryside Agency and Government's Rural Advocate, Andrew Slade, Head of RDA, Graeme Cock, director of Mole Valley Farmers and Edd Akerman from Wiltshire Young Farmers.

The top item up for debate is the issue of rural housing and employment for this next generation of farmers.

Nick Creasy, organiser of Devon Young Farmers, said: "The weekend will be a celebration of all the activity that takes place throughout the year as well as providing us with an opportunity to share ideas and discuss important industry issues."

Young Farmers will also be competing in a variety of competitions including public speaking, sports and drama. Anticipation will also build towards the announcement of Senior and Junior Young Farmer of the year, due to be announced during the last day of the conference on Sunday, March 6.