Farming Talk: So grateful for support to families in need
It is amazing the number of people you meet in The Square in Shrewsbury on a Saturday.
The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution recently held our annual Market Day. We sold homemade cakes, produce and books. Children had the chance to ride mini tractors and families enjoyed sitting in a Maxi tractor kindly loaned by Pontesbury tractors.
The highlight was milking Daisy the cow, who normally resides with Stapeley Vets.
We had many local people wanting to know how they could support British agriculture. We raised over £530.
Earlier this month we were fortunate to have a visit to Shropshire Petals, near Newport, meeting Chris Riddle, the national chairman of RABI who was able to tell us of the gratitude they receive from beneficiaries.
All the help is totally confidential and undertaken by compassionate welfare officers, who assess each individual case, knowing the best way to give support. However, we are given permission to describe some ways the funds are spent.
One example is of 'Terence', who was seriously injured in a farming accident and in hospital for a considerable period. His wife and young children were struggling to cope with running the farm and general family life.
RABI stepped in to provide benefit advice and pay for help on the farm for several months. The farm was running at a loss, and a business appraisal funded by RABI has helped the family plan for the future.
The walk around the Apley Estate (by kind permission of Lord and Lady Hamilton) was blessed with beautiful sunshine, raising over £300. Would you like a walk or cycle ride in your area next year? We are always grateful for the offer of venues and fundraising ideas.
Shropshire has received the most help from RABI this year, after North Yorkshire. That county received £72,000, and we received £58,620 to August 2015. Year upon year, RABI is doing more to help those active in the farming community. It is worth a call to the helpline 0300 303 7373.
Shropshire Young Farmers have donated an incredible £7,000. Every penny is so valued by those in need. Shropshire RABI committee is grateful for all the support. If you would like to know more contact regional manager Kate Jones 07876 492839 or email: kate.jones@rabi.org.uk
Christine Downes is chairwoman of Shropshire Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution committee.
