BEN LOMOND is firmly in the sights of the team at the Scottish Farmer, who are preparing to take on the Munro as part of RSABI’s Virtual Great Glen Challenge, on August 27.

After 18 months apart, the whole team is excited to be back together and for a worthwhile cause, raising funds for a charity close to all our hearts.

RSABI is a fantastic charity which beats right at the heart of Scottish agriculture, providing emotional, practical and financial support to those in need. With one farmer being lost to suicide in the UK every week, the valuable support offered by RSABI to individuals and their families cannot be overstated.

Team captain Claire Taylor commented: “The pandemic left a gaping hole in the farming calendar, which for many individuals meant no respite between the busiest points of the year. With farmers going straight from lambing and calving, in to harvest and then onto winter, with no social breaks.

“RSABI recognises the unique pressures facing farmers which have been exacerbated by the enforced isolation over the past 18 months and is there to help individuals and families who are struggling. Events like the Great Glen Challenge are vital to raising awareness of the services on offer by the charity and much needed funds to ensure more farmers can be supported.”

The Scottish Farmer’s Julie Wight is taking part in the Great Glen Challenge for the first time this year. She said: “After a year and a half apart, it will be great to be reunited with the team and what better way than getting us all involved in such a rewarding challenge – we have been bribed with an award-winning picnic from Ken at the bottom,” she laughed.

“This last year has been a challenging one for all and we want everyone to know there is always support out there. Don’t be afraid to keep talking. Knowing who you can talk to is so important and if you don’t feel you want to open up to a close friend or family member, then RSABI are there to help.”

Scottish Farmer editor Ken Fletcher shared a similar sentiment: “In my view, RSABI provides a backdrop of support for rural families in need that is essential for the overall well-being of the industry. That it is called upon more and more for assistance is due proof - if any were needed - that it provides a specific care 'package' that has helped many hundreds of farmers through difficult times. We are only too happy to give something 'back' as way of thanks.”

If you would like to sponsor the team from the Scottish Farmer, please visit: https://rsabi.enthuse.com/pf/the-scottish-farmer-768d8

NSA Scotland chair, Jen Craig and NSA Scottish Region co-ordinator, Grace Reid, will also be participating in RSABI’s first-ever virtual Great Glen Challenge on Friday, August 27.

Both Jen and Grace will endeavour to complete more than 20km each, which will take place at Kinross’ Loch Leven Heritage Trail, with the added twist of a night-time quest! They hope to set off in the wee hours of the morning, adding an extra element for the worthy cause.

Jen commented: “RSABI is a fantastic organisation which has a wide range of services that many people do not realise and NSA Scotland has been a long-time supporter of the work they do. In this past year we have all been busy trying to keep going and we are very lucky to have people around us and our Scottish countryside to escape to.

"We are extremely looking forward to the event and hope to assist the raising awareness of the emotional, practical and financial support that is available to all of the agricultural sector should they ever need it.”

Grace added: “This is the first year we have competed as Team NSA Scotland and it definitely will not be our last. We would like to thank all the staff at RSABI for their hard work which certainly does not go unnoticed. If anyone is in doubt, please get in touch with them – you will not be sorry.”

Jen and Grace’s mileage will be tracked using the running app Strava, with regular updates shared to update on their progress. Keep an eye out for more elements of surprise! NSA Scotland wish all participants the best of luck and hope that they find it an enjoyable and fun filled experience.

To sponsor Team NSA Scotland please visit: https://rsabi.enthuse.com/pf/nsa-scotland

* RSABI’s helpline is open 365 days a year from 7am – 11pm, on 0300 111 4166.