The West of Scotland came together to support the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI) recently, when more than 200 people gathered at the Lochgreen House Hotel and Spa, in Ayrshire, for a fundraising ball which raised more than £24,000.
Organised by David Cooper, the event brought together the local community, with various businesses generously providing gifts, vouchers and donations.
The duo of Cammy Wilson, of The Sheep Game, and Robbie Duncan, of Quest Farm Supplies, had everyone entertained for the night along with Craig Wilson's auctioneer, Drew Kennedy, who auctioned off the prizes.
RSABI ambassador, Mary Ann McWilliam, was heavily involved in the fundraising ball and gave a speech to kick start a wonderful night about the nature of the business.
“It was an absolutely super night that was well organised, everyone was really up for a party and seemed to enjoy themselves whilst being very generous and supportive of the charity. The venue, food and band were all fantastic so what was there not to like?” said Mary Ann.
“Unfortunately, this is a busy time of year for us, the long dark winter nights are causing more mental health problems and the cost of living is hitting hard.
"People are really struggling with heating their homes and putting food on the table, and we want to be able to support people. Looking after people’s health is No 1 – without that we have nothing.
“We are continuing to raise awareness of the work the charity does and ensure no one is out there on their own, isolation is a big thing but there is support out there,” she ensured.
Organiser David added: “RSABI is such an incredible cause and having been touched unfortunately by many stories of people within agriculture struggling with their mental health I thought something should be done. I didn’t realise how much I would enjoy organising such an event, but it really has brought the community together.
We would love to continue the event next year, but it has been down to the following fantastic businesses support that this year’s event was the success it was, so we really cannot thank them enough."
Case Sport
Glenapp Castle
Royal Troon Golf Club
B and G Mole Patrol
Rural Finance
Margaret Johnston Art
Portavadie marina and spa
Inverarity Morton
A & J Wright Traboyack Farms
The Aitken family, Ayr racecourse
J and A Ferrie, The Bait House, Portpatrick
Lochgreen Hotel and Spa
The Barclay family, the Sheep Shacks
JM Livestock
Barr holiday let
John H McNae
Bryson Tractors
The Coo Shed
The Sheep Game
Shawwood Farm
Whitehill Farm
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here