TIME to dig into those pockets, step up to the plate and back the participants preparing for this year’s RSABI Great Glen challenge, which takes place on Friday August 25.

The event, which raised over £112,000 in 2015 and 2016 for the charity supporting people in Scottish agriculture, has attracted a sell-out 27 teams this year, from rural businesses and organisations up and down the country, and 108 competitors in total.

Sponsored once again by solicitors Ledingham Chalmers, with additional support from partners Royal Bank of Scotland, The Scottish Farmer, Galbraith and Bank of Scotland – who have all entered teams – the Challenge involves four competitors per team working together to cycle, kayak, walk and run a 46km section of the Great Glen from Fort Augustus to Neptune’s Staircase at Benavie.

As well as competing for the overall challenge trophy itself, teams vie with each other to raise the largest amount of money for this worthy cause, which provides practical support and financial assistance to individuals and their families across the agricultural sector.

Dominic Wedderburn from event partner Galbraith said: “I am looking forward to the challenge. The Galbraith teams came in second and third place last year and personally, I am keen to retain a podium position for the 17km run section having come in third last year.

“I have been training hard; as part of my preparation I have been running up Hill of Tarvit during my lunchtimes. I am very proud raise both funding and awareness for the RSABI cause.”

RSABI’s Paul Tinson who co-ordinates the event added: “We have been delighted to witness another increase in the number of teams coming forward to support this great event, and we’re excited to welcome a number of new teams, as well as returning businesses too!

“The challenge is designed to be just that, reminding everyone of the hard work and endeavour undertaken by those we aim to help. Do show your support for RSABI and our teams by donating at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/RSABIGGC17”

The teams set off on the trail from 9am on August 25 in Fort Augustus. You can view the teams and their fundraising progress on the campaign page – please donate to them or to RSABI, to support the event this year.