The exceptional efforts and hard work of Scotland’s farming community has been recognised in a Harvest Thanksgiving service hosted by Edinburgh’s St Giles’ Cathedral and supported by RHASS (the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland).

The service took place on October 6 at the historic cathedral, which celebrates its 900th anniversary this year, and was conducted by Rev Sigrid Marten, Associate Minister of St Giles’. Alongside celebrating the tireless efforts of Scotland’s farming community, the service also acknowledged the extremely challenging weather conditions Scotland’s farmers have faced ahead of this year’s harvest.

Displays of seasonal vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, parsnips, broccoli, and pumpkins, were donated by RHASS Directors for the service from farms across the country to shine a light on the array of local produce grown in Scotland.

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Following the service the produce on display was donated to Edinburgh charities, Empty Kitchens Full Hearts, the Grassmarket Community Project and the Salvation Army Hostel, to allow the produce to be turned into healthy meals for people in need.

Those arriving at Sunday’s service were greeted by a John Deere tractor and a Stewart trailer outside of the cathedral, which were kindly provided by Thomas Sherriff of Haddington, to showcase the machinery used by farmers to assist in the harvest of our local produce.

RHASS Chairman, James Logan, said: “Our role at RHASS is to champion Scotland’s rural community all year around. This year farmers have been faced with one of their most challenging harvests to date, after a cool and wet summer, Sunday’s service was a great moment to acknowledge the resilience of those across the industry and to thank our farmers for their continued efforts when faced with such circumstances. It also allowed us to express how grateful we are for the wonderful fruits and vegetables that are grown on our doorstep.

“We thank our local farmers for donating items which local Edinburgh charities have now benefited from and to everyone who was able to join us for the service. We hope it helped to bring to life the efforts of our farming community who play an essential role in bringing food to our plates every day.”