For the first time, the annual Young Farmers' Ambassadors European Conference will take place at King William’s College this year.

The 51st conference will be held between the 4th and 11th of July, providing a busy schedule of events for participants. 

Around 150 delegates will attend from 17 countries, including the United States of America and Australia.

Minister of Tourism and Leisure, Martin Quayle MHK, is the IYFE President for the Executive Committee for Europe for 2008/09.  The committee is delighted that the Isle of Man has been selected to host the conference, and thrilled that representatives from so many countries are involved.

Dr Sarah Welch, Principal of King William’s College, commented 'We extend a very warm welcome to the delegates attending this year’s conference at King William’s College. It has been arranged to coincide with Manx National Week and the hard-working committee has put together a very interesting and enjoyable programme.

'The delegates always stay in agricultural colleges or boarding schools so the college was deemed a very suitable venue for the event.  I would like to extend sincere thanks to all of my colleagues who have been involved in organising this exciting occasion.'

The opening ceremony will have an official welcome from the Chief Minister, Hon. Tony Brown, MHK.  Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and Noel Cringle, President of Tynwald, are also invited guests.

Whilst visiting the Isle of Man, delegates will also have the opportunity to witness the open-air Tynwald Day ceremony, visit museums and enjoy other aspects of Manx life and culture.

Dr Welch concluded 'We are delighted to host such a prestigious event and look forward to providing the delegates with an excellent venue for their 51st annual YFAE conference.'