RSABI'S Great Glen Challenge 2017 has raised over £55,000 to support people in Scottish agriculture.

The event, held at the end of August, exceeded its fundraising target, actually totting up a final figure of £55,150 for the year, taking its cumulative total to over £200,000 raised by around 450 rural competitors, representing over 100 company teams, since it began in 2012.

This year’s GGC saw 108 competitors cycle, kayak, walk and run 46km from Fort Augustus to Fort William. The challenge was supported by a record 27 teams of four people from across a wide spectrum of agricultural and other land-based businesses and organisations.

‘Team Teal’ from rural property consultants Davidson and Robertson were crowned winners, with teams from Laurence Gould Partnership and Soil Essentials following closely behind in second and third position.

The funds raised will help RSABI provide emotional, practical and financial support to individuals and their families across the agricultural sector including farming, crofting and growing.

RSABI’s Paul Tinson, who co-ordinates the event, 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 2017, our headline sponsors, Ledingham Chalmers, solicitors, our partner organisations, volunteer stewards and the hundreds of people who donated so generously up and down the country to our teams this year.

“In recent years we have experienced a surge in demand for our services, at an average cost to the charity of £500,000 each year, so a flagship event such as this, as well as our growing supporter scheme, become ever more important to us."

Ledingham Chalmers partner Jim Drysdale added: “The role of RSABI has arguably never been more important as the industry works together to create a sustainable future in the face of continuing uncertainty, as well as challenging market and weather conditions.

“We are once again delighted to support this fantastic event that raises essential funds to help so many people throughout rural Scotland”.

If you, or someone you know is not coping, RSABI urges you to contact the helpline on 0300 111 4166 – or call the number to donate by becoming a supporter.