The vital funds were raised earlier this year at the PI’s charity dinner held at the Donald Malcolm Heritage Centre in Linwood and have now been divided between RHASS partner charities: the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs’ (SAYFC) Big Build, the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET), RSABI and Farmstrong Scotland.

The PI team’s unique charity dinner auction prizes played a key role in helping to raise the funds, which included a selection of luxury experiences, exclusive sports memorabilia, whisky collections and agricultural prizes.

George Lyon, RHASS president, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the individual members and local companies who were so generous in their sponsorship and support for our Strathclyde RHASS charity dinner.

“The £137,000 we raised for our agriculture charities far exceeded our expectations, and we are delighted to be able to generously support our four agriculture charities.

“The Presidential team decided to give £39,000 each to RSABI, RHET and SAYFC Big Build. We also gave Farmstrong £20,000 on the understanding it would trigger match funding from Movember, which would increase the value of the award to £40,000.

“The Strathclyde Presidency comes to an end on the 16th of July, and the baton is handed over to Aberdeen. I would just like to thank all of our team who worked so hard over the last year to make our Presidency a success.”

Vital funds raised

As well as helping give sector charities a significant funding boost, the Strathclyde Presidential Initiative 2025 also saw the team deliver a series of events focused on agriculture’s journey to net zero, including a parliamentary reception and working with farmers, researchers, and agribusinesses to showcase and promote the latest innovations that are helping the industry to reduce its carbon footprint.

James Logan, chairman of RHASS, said: “Our 2025 Presidential Initiative team have done a wonderful job of helping to shine a light on the sector’s drive towards net zero through some brilliant events.

“More than that, they have also helped raise vital funds for organisations that provide indispensable services for those across the sector and help to champion farming and rural life. We thank George, especially, for the energy and drive he has brought to the role and the entire Presidential Team who have helped to make what’s been achieved this year possible.”

Katrina Barclay, executive officer of RHET, said: “We are delighted and honoured to have been selected to receive this generous donation from the RHASS PI team, who have raised an incredible amount. Supporting the work of our charity in this way helps to keep our free food and farming learning available to schoolchildren all over Scotland. We need to raise about £500k each year, so this donation is very welcome.”

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, added: “The Strathclyde Presidential team really went above and beyond over the past year, and we are hugely grateful to them for the exceptional amount raised. As a charity we very much depend on the support of people in Scottish agriculture to allow us to do the work we do to provide financial, practical and emotional support to people going through tough times, and this donation means a great deal.”

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Now in its 21^st year, the Pink Ladies Tractor Road Run has raised over £1.2 million for Cancer Research UK’s breast cancer fund since it started in 2004.

This year’s run is set for 6^th July and will see women drive decorated tractors through Norfolk and Suffolk. 

The run starts at the 100^th Bomb Group Airfield in South Norfolk, across the Waveney Valley into North Suffolk, then passes through the country town of Harleston to a public picnic lunch at Gawdy Hall, before returning to Thorpe Abbotts.

Co-founders of the event, Annie and John Chapman, were recently awarded MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025 for their fundraising work.

Amazing people doing an amazing job

Cecilia Pryce, head of research, compliance and shipping for Openfield, will be taking part in the run again this year in her Dexta tractor – having had to miss it last year due to a back operation. 

“I have lost count on how many times I have now taken part in this tractor run,” she says. “The fact is it’s an amazing day out with amazing people doing an amazing job raising money for a very important cause. 

“Lumps, bumps and scars on hearts and minds are not fun but thankfully many are now removed and followed up with treatment. Unfortunately, not always and many lovely, amazing individuals also lose their battles. 

“Let’s do something for them and their families. Tractors make every normal person smile – they help feed this nation and are an honest work horse! Let’s use them to bring smiles and turn them pink for a great cause.”

Cecilia has so far raised nearly £2,000 – to donate visit her fundraising page. 

For more information on the run, visit https://www.ladiestractorroadrun.co.uk, or to donate, https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/pink-ladies-tractor-road-run-2025

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The event formed part of the Group’s ambitious £150,000 fundraising target for the charity, which is the focus of its 150th anniversary celebrations in 2025. 

Set at Norfolk’s scenic countryside, the event attracted motoring enthusiasts from across the region, combining the charm of vintage and classic vehicles with a spirit of community and charitable giving.  

Participants followed a carefully planned route, solving a series of clues that tested both navigation and deduction skills while enjoying a relaxed and engaging day out. 

Among the standout vehicles taking part were a 1970s Aston Martin V8 Vantage and a Vauxhall Insignia proudly wrapped in Dementia UK branding.  

The event concluded with prizes awarded for “Best Turned Out Car” and for the team solving the most clues, with hampers generously donated by Goodies Food Hall of Pulham St Mary and Bakers & Larners of Holt. 

In memory of Peggy and John Thurlow

The organiser said that the event was made possible thanks to the enthusiastic support of the local community, participants and sponsors, including CHS Alarms, Auto Trader, East Bilney Coachworks Repair Centre, Mattressman, Off Piste Agri, Bentwaters Park, Nick Brown Transport, A Plummer Building Contractors, Euro Car Parts, G W Topham & Son, and Duckworth Motor Group. 

This treasure hunt is one of many events planned by the Thurlow Nunn Group in support of Dementia UK. The Group, which was established in 1875 in Stowmarket, Suffolk, remains a family-owned and managed business now led by the sixth generation.

The anniversary fundraising effort is held in memory of its late chairman, John Thurlow and his wife Peggy Thurlow, both of whom passed away last year. 

James Thurlow said: “Father was a dedicated and well-known figure in the East Anglian farming community; he was so proud of our family business, and he would have loved being part of our celebrations.   

“Dementia is a cruel disease, which has a devastating effect on sufferers and their families. We feel fortunate to have this opportunity to raise money to help support others affected by the disease.” 

Support the fundraising here. 

READ MORE: Thurlow Nunn Standen announced death of its former chairman John Thurlow  

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The Great Scone Palace Challenge is set to raise funds for RSABI, the charity which supports people in Scottish agriculture.

Two days of activities will kick off on Friday 12th September with a welcome party at Perth Racecourse, followed by a challenge day on 13th September, which will see teams of five from across the agricultural community test their skills in a range of activities.

Set in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace, teams will experience an action-packed day, from a tractor pull to an obstacle course with a round bale theme, as well as a mystery maze challenge.

The title sponsor of the event is Scottish legal firm Gillespie Macandrew, which provides specialist legal and tax advice to rural businesses in Scotland.

As well as hosting the event, Scone Palace has very kindly named RSABI as their charity of the year and are offering support with the cost and logistics of running the event.

Building on success of The Great Glen Challenge

To kickstart the challenge weekend, there will be a welcome party on the Friday evening at Perth Racecourse, where guests will have an opportunity to cheer on Emmerdale cast members and well-known farming faces as they compete on foot around the racecourse in what is sure to be a fun-filled evening of entertainment.

Following the main challenge event on Saturday, Scone Palace will host an exclusive celebration ball with Emmerdale on the Saturday evening. The evening will include performances from the Emmerdale cast band, a charity auction, live music, dancing and an opportunity to celebrate.

Pauline Macmillan, head of fundraising at RSABI, said: “We’re always looking for new ways to put the fun in fundraising to ensure we have funding to deliver crucial support to those in the agriculture community.

“Building on the success of The Great Glen Challenge over the last 10 years, we are very much looking forward to heading to Scone Palace this September. We will be delighted to welcome back those who have taken part in The Great Glen in the past as well as new teams for an event which promises to be great fun as well as highly competitive!

“Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors, and on behalf of everyone at RSABI, I’d like to extend our thanks to our main sponsor, Gillespie Macandrew, for their generous contribution.

“We are also very indebted to Lord Stormont and the team at Scone Palace for all their support and enthusiasm, which is very much appreciated.”

‘Get your teams signed up for the challenge’

Emmerdale actor Nicola Wheeler, who has been playing Nicola King in the popular soap since 2011, said that she was delighted to join the RSABI team recently to help launch the event.

She said: “I have had the most brilliant day in Perthshire with RSABI, hearing all about the plans for the event and meeting the team at Scone Palace – a simply amazing venue! We’re really looking forward to coming up for the event in Perthshire, so get your teams signed up for the challenge and support RSABI, and we look forward to seeing you in September.”

For more information on the Great Scone Palace Challenge, please visit RSABI’s website. Places are limited, so early entry is encouraged.

Tickets for the Friday Sept 12th Welcome Event at Perth Racecourse cost £35 and are available here.

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free, confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.

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The sell-out concert at the Thainstone Centre in Inverurie was supported by almost 700 attendees who enjoyed 18 magical songs, culminating in a stirring rendition of Caledonia with a piper bringing the evening to a close.

The event, hosted by farmer-comedian Jim Smith, was a celebration of the farming community’s generosity and unity, with performances led by the 88-strong Farmers’ Choir under the direction of choirmaster, Kate Picken MBE.

A highlight of the evening was the auction, hosted by Harvey Stuart, a trainee auctioneer with ANM Group, which raised £7,400.

‘Truly heartwarming support

RSABI’s chair, Jane Mitchell, said: “We are thrilled with the result of this event. The support we received from the farming community, our sponsors, and all who attended is truly heartwarming.

“The funds raised will go a long way in ensuring we can continue to provide our vital services to those in need.”

The event was generously sponsored by Stewart Trailers, the headline sponsor, with additional support from silver sponsor, the ANM Group Ltd, and bronze sponsors Harbro and East Coast Viners as well as all of the generous local businesses who sponsored songs on the evening, the charity said.

All proceeds from the evening will go directly towards RSABI’s services, providing free, confidential practical, financial, and emotional support to the Scottish farming community.

Giving back to community

Mandy Stewart, who runs Stewart Trailers with husband James, said the Inverurie-based company was “delighted” to support the event.

She added: “The atmosphere on the night was superb, and it was great to see so many people in the farming community relaxing and enjoying a catch-up, as well as the outstanding musical experience provided by The Farmers’ Choir.

“James and I feel very grateful to everyone who has supported us on our journey as we have grown our business, and it is a pleasure to be able to give back by supporting an event like this and playing our part in raising such an exceptional amount.”

The support RSABI offers includes free counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.

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Mr Steward tragically took his life in June 2024 at the age of 60. Now, his wife Caroline and their three children, Victoria, Emily, and Charlie, along with family and friends, are preparing to come together almost exactly a year later to complete this endurance challenge.

Taking place from 2nd to 7th June 2025, the aim for the walk is to raise the profile of the work done by RSABI relating to mental health, including its 24-hour helpline 0808 1234 555 and free counselling support to help people get back on track, and to encourage farmers not to bottle things up.

The walkers have chosen to undertake their challenge in a part of western Scotland that held many fond memories for Mr Steward.

The group will follow the Kintyre Way, which winds its way through the Kintyre peninsula from Tarbert to Machrihanish. Mr Steward had a special connection to Kintyre, as it was where his mother came from, and he spent many childhood holidays there. Later in life, he continued to visit the area with his own family.

“100 for One”

Mr Steward’s family and friends hope that their fundraising endeavours will also remind people how important it is to talk to someone if they are feeling overwhelmed and share how they are feeling.

As well as farming, Mr Steward loved sport, so the walkers have decided to weave his passion for cricket into the title they have chosen for their fundraiser – “100 for One”.

This links to the 100-mile challenge to cricket, where scoring 100 is a milestone achievement. Their collective view is that if even just one person struggling with their mental health is helped by the initiative, it will have been a total success.

Those closest to the farmer want to ensure that other farmers do not suffer in silence and hope this challenge will help to raise awareness of the vital mental health support services available through RSABI.

Significant concern in the farming community

The charity offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, arranged simply and quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Neil’s family and friends for undertaking this walk in his memory, which will help to raise awareness of the support available for farmers and others in Scottish agriculture who are struggling with their mental health.

“Sadly, suicide remains a significant concern in the farming community, and it is vital that people know they are never alone, and that support and help is available.

“We hope the challenge being undertaken by the Stewarts and friends will also help to share our #KeepTalking message, reminding people not to bottle things up and to look out for each other. RSABI is always here too – please don’t hesitate to call us on 0808 1234 555, any time of day or night.”

The charity is also very grateful to the Stewart family and friends for deciding to raise funds to help RSABI support farmers through its mental health and suicide prevention work.

Pauline Macmillan, head of fundraising, RSABI, added: “Our thanks go to the Stewart family and to all their friends who are taking part in, or supporting, the “100 For One” walk.

“By making a donation in support of the walkers, you will help RSABI to continue to provide vital support to those who need it most, and we are very grateful to everyone who chooses to contribute. Whatever the level of support, large or small, each and every donation is very much appreciated.”

To support the Stewarts, donations to RSABI can be made via JustGiving: Neil Thomson is fundraising for RSABI or to donate £20, text 100FORONE to 70450.

Given the location of the walk and to help with logistics, any friends of Mr Steward who would like to join the walkers to take part in a stint of the challenge should make their own travel and accommodation arrangements for whichever day they would like to join, and if anyone would like more information they can contact Pauline.macmillan@rsabi.org.uk

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.

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Through hands-on farm visits, the national education charity is bringing the fascinating world of agricultural machinery to life for thousands of young minds, fostering a love for engineering and technology in the process. 

Tractors, combines and specialist equipment play a vital role in modern farming, but for many children, especially those from urban backgrounds and areas of high deprivation. 

The participants have an opportunity to see and experience these machines up close is rare. The Country Trust’s farm visits bridge this gap, offering children the chance to explore how machinery shapes the food they eat and the environment around them. 

Children learn about innovation, problem-solving, and engineering 

During the visits, children meet real farmers and machinery operators, learning firsthand about the mechanics, innovation, and problem-solving required to keep a farm running.  

They see how GPS technology enhances precision farming, how different attachments transform tractors into multi-purpose tools, and how engineering advancements are improving sustainability. For some, it is their first introduction to the idea that agricultural technology is a career path within their reach. 

Tom, a farmer and Country Trust host, shared his experience: “When children step into a cab and see how complex yet essential these machines are, their excitement is incredible.  

“They ask thoughtful questions about how things work, and you can see that spark of curiosity turning into inspiration. These visits show them that farming isn’t just about growing crops—it’s about innovation, problem-solving, and engineering.” 

Building the next generation of agriculture workers

The Country Trust explained that by enabling children to engage with agricultural machinery in a real-world setting, it is helping to build the next generation of engineers, mechanics, and agricultural innovators.  

Many children leave a farm visit seeing tractors not just as vehicles, but as the heart of a sophisticated and evolving industry—one they may one day be part of. 

The Country Trust relies on donations to run these farm visits and its other programmes, which help connect children with farming, food, and the countryside.  

Learn more and support The Country Trust here. 

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The tractor, which was purchased by Cheffins in June 2024 from an onsite auction that the firm hosted in Lincolnshire for Dave and Pete Ingalls, has been fully restored by Youngs Agricultural Services in Stretham, near Ely, and could raise up to £20,000 when it is auctioned this coming October. 

The Cheffins Charity Tractor will be on the road at a host of events throughout the UK over the coming months, including The National Tractor Run in Stowmarket, Suffolk, on the 20th April, The Suffolk Show on the 29th and 30th May, Tractor Fest at Newby Hall in Yorkshire on 7th June, the Thurlow Nunn Standen anniversary road run in Suffolk on the 8th June and the Saffron Walden Carnival procession on the 5th July.  

The tractor will also attend other events, which will be announced during the year. 

READ MORE: Vintage auction sells over £2.4 million worth of vehicles  

‘Icon among vintage tractor circles’ 

The Fordson range was extended in early 1962 with the introduction of the Super Dexta. This new model was announced at the Smithfield show in November 1961 but did not go into production until the following April.  

The revised nose-cone on the Super Dexta was the result of changes to the cowling to accommodate a larger radiator. This Deluxe model has a ‘live’ power take-off, hydraulics and a pick-up hitch.  

1963 saw the launch of the ‘New Performance’ tractors, the ultimate and final development of the Fordson range. Modifications introduced with the new range saw the Super Dexta fitted with an up-rated P4696 Minimec pump which boosted the power to 44.5hp.  

Oliver Godfrey, director and head of the Cheffins Machinery Division, said: “One of the most sought-after collectors’ machines, the Fordson Super Dexta is somewhat of an icon among vintage tractor circles.  

“After an extensive restoration by Youngs Agricultural Services, it is now resplendent in its orange and blue livery, which fits perfectly with the Cheffinsbrand.  

“We are delighted to announce that the entirety of the proceeds for the sale will be going direct to the Addenbrookes Charitable Trust and are pleased to be able to support this important charity, which carries out such vital work.  

“We would like to encourage as many people as possible to come and see the Cheffins Charity Tractor in all its glory at the various events throughout the year and look forward to it going under the hammer in October.” 

The tractor will be sold as part of the Cheffins Vintage Sale on 18th October, hosted at the Cheffins Machinery Saleground at Sutton in Cambridgeshire. 

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Over the next six weeks, a series of events will take place around Scotland aimed at combining the serious business of advice and support to help farmers prepare for the future, with a chance for a pre-lambing social over a bite to eat.

The events will be run by RSABI working in partnership with The Royal Countryside Fund and will feature legal, business planning, farm accounts, mediation and succession experts who will lead some lively discussions to help farming families plan for the future.

The line-up of speakers set to share their expertise with farmers at events in Perthshire, Orkney, Aberdeenshire and Dumfries-shire includes Jenn Stewart, partner and head of Rural at Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants, who will shine a light on tax and business planning as well as Heather Wildman of Saviour Associates who will be sharing top tips for succession planning.

Gordon Davies, a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and registered mediator at Scottish Mediators, will be offering insights into how best to tackle difficult conversations; Emma Robertson, partner at Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP together with Ellen Eunson, rural lawyer with Anderson Strathern, and Alastair Dale, partner at Dales Solicitors LLP, will be highlighting the importance of planning for the next generation, including getting it right with wills and power of attorney.

Book your spot

The speakers will be joined by Carol McLaren, CEO of RSABI, sharing advice on managing stress and building resilience, and Doug Bell, Scottish co-ordinator of The Royal Countryside Fund’s Farm Resilience Programme, who will chair the meetings.

The events will start at 6pm with an opportunity to enjoy a catch-up with fellow farmers over a bite to eat and will be held as follows:

• Thursday, 27th February – The Royal George Hotel, Perth, 6pm

• 13th March – Woodland House Hotel, Dumfries, 6pm

• 24th March – Thainstone Mart, Inverurie, 6pm

• 25th March – Albert Hotel, Kirkwall Orkney, 6pm

• A further online meeting will be held via Zoom – date to be confirmed.

Interested farmers and others involved in Scottish agriculture should register for these free events via Eventbrite. More information is available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk and social media platforms.

The roadshow is being funded by the Scottish Government’s Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund and will be supported by a series of videos related to the topics which will be discussed at the events.

Carol McLaren, CEO of RSABI, said: “We are delighted to be supporting The Royal Countryside Fund by delivering this roadshow in Scotland.

“The meetings will all start with an opportunity to enjoy some food and a catch-up with fellow farming folk, followed by a really useful update from some excellent speakers and a chance to discuss and air any confusion and concern about how to plan for the future.

“Our thanks to all the speakers who are very kindly supporting the roadshow and sharing their thoughts and experience for this exceptional opportunity to farmers to receive thoughts and advice on steps they should be considering to protect their families and their businesses.”

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.

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The charity, which is dedicated to helping people in Scottish agriculture, has set an ambitious target of reaching 1,000 supporters in the coming year as it seeks to underpin income to meet increasing demand for the services it offers.

The move marks an exciting new chapter for the charity, which currently has over 750 individual, business, and corporate supporters. With the fresh new look and feel behind Friends of RSABI, the charity hopes to inspire more individuals and businesses to join its growing community and contribute to its vital work.

As part of the launch of Friends of RSABI, fundraising executive Margo Wills visited her very first business supporter, Sam Mercer of Hamilton Ross Group. Mr Mercer joined the Supporter Scheme back in 2016 and is delighted to continue his support as a Friend of RSABI.

Ms Wills said: “The rebrand to Friends of RSABI reflects the incredible community spirit of our supporters and the vital role they play in helping us support people involved in Scottish agriculture. We’re setting an ambitious target of reaching 1,000 Friends this year, and we’re confident we can achieve this with the continued generosity and enthusiasm of supporters like Sam.”

‘Meaningful difference in Scottish agriculture’

Mr Mercer described the work RSABI does to help those in need as “truly exceptional”.

He added: “I’m proud to be part of this remarkable support network. As a Friend of RSABI, I’m excited to see the community grow even stronger and continue making a meaningful difference in Scottish agriculture.”

The Supporters’ Scheme, launched in 2014, has been a cornerstone of RSABI’s fundraising efforts, enabling the charity to deliver vital support to those in need. Current supporters will automatically transfer to Friends of RSABI and all Friends will be eligible for a 10% discount on purchases from the RSABI online shop. Additional benefits will be announced in the following months.

By becoming a Friend of RSABI, supporters directly contribute to the charity’s work, which includes financial assistance, emotional support, and practical guidance for people in Scottish agriculture.

This includes free, confidential counselling, delivered quickly after the initial enquiry, and a 24/7 support service, available by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential web-chat at www.rsabi.org.uk.

As organisations consider their charity partnerships for 2025, RSABI is encouraging companies to become Corporate Friends of RSABI. In addition to funding the charity’s vital work, Corporate Friends receive brand visibility and access to valuable networking opportunities, including corporate fundraising events, providing businesses with fun and engaging ways to get involved.

RSABI’s head of fundraising, Pauline Macmillan, said: “With the support of our growing community, we can make a meaningful difference to those in need. As we move into a very busy year of helping people in Scottish agriculture, we’re calling on individuals, businesses, and corporate partners to help us reach our goal of 1,000 Friends of RSABI this year.”

To become a Friend of RSABI or learn more about how your support can help, visit the charity’s website or email friends@rsabi.org.uk

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