RURAL charities have benefited from almost £4000 raised at NFU Scotland’s annual dinner this week.

Following the dinner, guests gave donations, which were then split between rural charity RSABI and the Royal Highland Education Trust.

Donations from dinner guests totalled £3912, and cheques were presented to John Kinnaird of RSABI and Katrina Barclay of RHET.

Mr Kinnaird commented: “I am delighted that NFUS has decided to support RSABI again this year. Demand for our services is increasing and NFU Scotland members are helping us to help those in real need.

“RSABI provides general support as well as financial assistance. Our helpline is available from 7am to 1pm, seven days a week. Call 0300 111 4166. If you know someone that needs help, put them in touch.”

Ms Barclay thanked guests for their donations and said: “We at RHET are proud of the ongoing support from NFU Scotland members to enable us to continue to engage with pupils across Scotland to help improve their understanding of food, farming and the working countryside.

“We are fortunate to have the dedicated support from hundreds of volunteers from the farming community to offer visits to working farms and classroom talks all of which are free of charge to school children across Scotland.

“For us to secure our running costs, which are in excess of £180k each year, we rely on donations, sponsorship and grants of all sizes. Thank you again for this generous donation.”