Her Majesty The Queen was Honorary Patron of RSABI, the charity supporting people in Scottish agriculture, for over 70 years.

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, attended this week’s Service of Thanksgiving for Her Majesty The Queen in St Giles’ Cathedral and also signed the Book of Condolences in Edinburgh’s City Chambers on behalf of RSABI’s staff, trustees and volunteers.

“RSABI has been supporting people in Scottish agriculture for 125 years, and we have had connections with the Royal Family since our establishment in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. We are very proud that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was our Honorary Patron for more than 70 years.

“Her Majesty showed great fondness and affection for Scottish agriculture and the people involved in the industry, and her love and interest in the Highland ponies and cattle at Balmoral is well-known.

“As our Honorary Patron, Her Majesty showed her support throughout the years, and expressed her pride in her long association with RSABI. In June this year we were honoured to be part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations at an event where we presented two awards for outstanding contribution to RSABI, in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal.

“As a mark of respect we have paused some of our charity’s activities during the period of mourning. However, all our support services are available as normal including our 24-hour Freephone Helpline – 0808 1234 555 – and the new webchat service available on our website.”