SCOTLAND’S rural charity RSABI was celebrating this week following confirmation that its Great Glen Challenge event has raised £50,146, once again exceeding its fundraising target.

The popular event, which pits teams from rural companies and organisations against each other along a 46km Highlands course, has raised over £178,000 in total since it was established in 2012.

This year’s GGC saw 92 competitors, divided into 23 teams, cycle, kayak, walk and run from Fort Augustus to Fort William. Watson Seeds from East Lothian were crowned winners, with two teams from CKD Galbraith following closely behind in second and third position.

The funds raised from team and individual sponsorship will now help RSABI provide assistance and support to people from agricultural and other land-based industrial backgrounds, who find themselves struggling to cope financially. RSABI currently helps over 900 people across Scotland, at an annual cost of around £600,000.

RSABI’s Paul Tinson said: “We are once again delighted with the total amount raised, and my colleagues and I thank all those who took part in Great Glen Challenge 2016, our headline sponsors, Ledingham Chalmers, solicitors, our partner organisations, volunteer stewards and the hundreds of people who have donated so generously up and down the country to our current fundraising campaign 'Help us help them', which aims to raise £150,000 by next Spring.

“As everyone knows, we are helping an ever increasing number of people throughout Scotland’s rural sector who continue to face widespread challenges. If you, or someone you know is not coping, RSABI urges you to call 0300 111 4166, alternatively please do call the number to donate to the Campaign and become a supporter.”