. . . R A B I newsspring 2015 THE MAGAZINE OF THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION

Great British Beef Week Page 3 Farmhouse breakfast round-up Pages 6-7

SUPPORTING FARMING FAMILIES WWW.RABI.ORG.UK From the chairman After an incredibly mild winter for most of us, The time has come for another issue of R.A.B.I. News and this gives me the opportunity to reflect upon just how lucky R.A.B.I. is as a charitable organisation. Lucky to have such a wonderful bedrock of support In this edition throughout England and Wales, lucky to have the most incredible team of staff, whether working as regional managers, regional welfare officers, in one of our wonderful homes or at HQ in Shaw House and lucky to be able to help such a wide range of people to whom an affinity with the land is second nature. Our supporters, whether individual or corporate, are all extremely dedicated to the cause and are typical Farmhouse Breakfasts of those who hold the purpose of R.A.B.I. so closely in their hearts. Pages 6 - 7 2014 was another extremely successful year with a wonderful level of voluntary income allowing the charity to again help very large numbers of people - both those who’ve come to the end of their working lives and those who are struggling to keep farming against what often appear to be the greatest of odds. I think it is a time when we should all be encouraged to shout loud about just how special Regional news the R.A.B.I. is and to encourage those who have yet to come forward to see what we can do to perhaps Pages 8 - 12 make their lives that little bit easier, their worries less and to hopefully provide a slightly brighter future for them and their families. Talking of those we help, a recent new beneficiary learnt about R.A.B.I. from a Christmas card received from a friend - you just never know how the word will be spread! YFCs & Colleges Once again Farmhouse Breakfasts have proved a great success and please don’t forget about the Pages 12 - 19 forthcoming Great British Beef Week (23 April to 3 May). Whether hosting a family roast or throwing Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution a few burgers on the barbecue, there are so many We are a welfare charity which helps farming people in opportunities of making use of this wonderful chance financial difficulty. Every year we support around 2,000 to promote the great meat produced in this country individuals and families and give more than £2 million and also raise funds and awareness for R.A.B.I.. in grants. We also offer practical help and always work However you support us please be assured that we in confidence, with compassion and discretion. are eternally grateful but, more than that, the Registered office: Shaw House, 27 West Way, Oxford OX2 0QH thanks of those who in turn we are Freephone helpline: 0300 303 7373 able to help are constant reminders General enquiries: 01865 724931 of just how important the role that Fax: 01865 202025 we fulfil is. Thank you for all that Email: [email protected] you do. Website: www.rabi.org.uk Twitter: www.twitter.com/rabicharity Finally, our thoughts and prayers Facebook: www.facebook.com/rabicharity1 at this sad time are with the Registered charity number 208858 family and friends of our late Patron Her Majesty The Queen R.A.B.I. colleague Emma Gibson President His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester who is greatly missed by us all. R.A.B.I. News is published quarterly by R.A.B.I. and edited by Philippa Spackman, telephone 01865 811581, email [email protected] Cover picture: Pork sausage and bacon butties for staff from Oxford solicitors Blake Lapthorn Morgan, who supported the sell-out Shaw House Farmhouse Breakfast – see pages 6 and 7 for more events. Chris Riddle congratulates Robin Slade, owner of the winning lamb in R.A.B.I.’s sheep class at the East of England Smithfield Festival. Thanks to great generosity, £1,200 was raised from ten donated lambs. Nati nal news R.A.B.I. has a bright new look this spring! Cyclists beef-up for GBBW In line with the look of R.A.B.I. News, our A team of five cyclists are beefing-up and accelerating), while raising funds range of promotional material is in preparation for a gruelling 300 mile for R.A.B.I.. eye-catching, fresh and colourful. You will cycle ride to mark to start of Great The ride begins in Bakewell on 21 April, see it on our stands, on our leaflets and our British Beef Week. and the team will visit eight auction campaign fundraising packs such as the one now available for Great British Beef The Derbyshire committee members marts throughout the East Midlands over Week. To get your own Great British Beef aim to celebrate and draw attention to three days. The ride also starts a series of Week event off to a good start, contact the UK beef industry, which has lost over R.A.B.I. fundraising events in celebration our Fundraising and Communications team 100,000 beef breeding cows over the of British beef, with Great British Beef on 01865 724931 for a campaign pack. Or last three years (a decline of nearly 7%, Week officially starting on 23 April. check with your local regional manager for Great British Beef Week events in your area. Decade of cheer R.A.B.I.’s 2013 hamper campaign raised a phenomenal total of close to £23,000, almost matching the highest sum ever raised from the campaign since it was launched ten years ago. “The donors who contribute so generously to this campaign know that people worse off than themselves will be at the receiving end of a gift that is not just practical but makes them feel wanted at a time which, for some, can be very lonely”, said Paul Burrows, chief executive. The hampers are distributed to people we help on a long-term basis and are always very much appreciated. “My Christmas will be a very happy one, thanks to all the brilliant R.A.B.I. donors The end is in sight for Manson and fundraisers”, wrote one lady in just one of the many letters and calls the welfare department receives from grateful House transformation recipients. Thank you to everyone who supported the campaign. It is an exciting time at Manson House, recently completed building having R.A.B.I.’s residential care home in Bury St been named after benefactor the Edmunds, Suffolk, where works to trans- late Margaret Stearn, whose generous British 10k form the facilities are in the final stages. legacy has helped to fund the project. Completion of the ambitious £5.5m Some residents, meanwhile, are now London run 2015 building project is due by the summer, in purpose-built new bedrooms in the With a route taking runners past many famous city sights, the British 10k London three years after it began in 2012. extended ‘link’ section of the original run is always an exciting event. R.A.B.I. house. Tenants are already enjoying the two has places available for the 2015 run on newly built blocks of flats, the most Now work is concentrating on the the morning of Sunday 12th July. If you are complicated refurbishment of the interested in taking part to raise funds for Grade II* listed home itself which was the charity, please email suzy.deeley@ rabi.org.uk for further information. first acquired by R.A.B.I. in the early 70s. When it is finished, the house will be far better equipped to meet the needs of elderly residents, helping Manson staff to deliver their warm and welcoming high levels of care well into the future. Next issue R.A.B.I. News will take a closer look at Manson House and what has been achieved there thanks to support Regular R.A.B.I. from county committee fundraising, runners, Cumbrian charitable foundations and individual duo Mandy donors as well as significant investment Robinson and by the charity itself. Sally Reeder.

HELPLINE 0300 303 7373 3 What R.A.B.I. Multi-talented and means to me much missed!

When Colin Cooper, head of finance, joined R.A.B.I. after leaving the Army, the Rt Hon William Waldegrave, MP for Bristol West, was Minister of , Fisheries and Food, the Milk Marketing Board had recently been dissolved and the first episode ofThe Vicar of Dibley appeared on our TV screens. “ I have worked for R.A.B.I. £9m went out in as many for more than 20 years and months. have been at the forefront Meanwhile, coming in, of many changes. we had a tidal wave of • The amendments to sympathetic donations, the charity’s rules, which and it was volunteers (our extended help to farm auditors, trustees and workers and their families as complete strangers among well as farmers themselves them) who helped us to and meant we can truly cope. The two main faces claim to be here for ALL of R.A.B.I. were and still are those in the farming Welfare (helping those in community. need) and Fundraising & Communications (helping • The reorganisation in 1998 that saw Trustees supporters to help R.A.B.I.) A lady with many talents, during reduced from over 20 to a but behind both of these is her 25 years at Manson House, more practical 12. the Finance department. Denise Cocksedge had roles as We prepare and distribute diverse as gardener and senior • The introduction of carer. Denise said goodbye to regional welfare officers the quarterly grants and one-off payments to friends, colleagues and residents which has done so much at a special retirement to help beneficiaries and beneficiaries. We receive, record, apply the Gift Aid presentation when Trustee Carol the regional managers who Rymer gave her gifts and flowers give so much support to scheme and bank monies and Marion Bryant, cook (who Denise and Brian our committees. received. We deal with legacies, investments and has herself been at Manson for an Blackham made • The introduction of income/expenditure for amazing 36 years), baked a a dynamic duo at welfare payments to help the residential homes and special cake for the occasion. Manson! working famers, instigated other properties, the costs shortly before the massive of running the charity itself, Foot & Mouth outbreak tax returns, PAYE, NIC, in 2001, which meant the VAT, preparing the annual Decade of care for Claire charity was well placed to accounts, preparing meet the needs of the crisis. financial reports for trustees, That crisis saw R.A.B.I. at its financial planning and finest. Big changes were budgeting… We also carry needed to our payments out internal audits and system and these were unannounced inspections achieved over Easter to give an independent allowing us to view of the running of process large R.A.B.I.’s residential homes, numbers of an important part of the grants daily external reviews carried instead of out by the Care doing Commission. We even act everything as co-ordinators for R.A.B.I.’s manually - information technology systems! I am very proud to say that, in the 20 years I have been at the charity, whatever Congratulations to Claire Ware who celebrated ten years the pressures, Finance has of providing dedicated care to residents at Manson House never failed to support all with a much deserved glass of fizz. Claire is seen here areas of R.A.B.I. and we will with, from left, R.A.B.I. chief executive Paul Burrows, continue to do so. ” Carole Smith, home manager, Susan Rogers, team leader and Linda Hallum, secretary.

4 NATIONAL NEWS Staff news Thank you! Bob Archibald, regional manager east, R.A.B.I. has said farewell to Philippa has retired after 12 years with R.A.B.I. Spackman, head of fundraising Committee members and regional and communications. Philippa was responsible for the bright new look of staff got together to wish Bob well and the charity’s publicity material, as well he also celebrated at Shaw House as putting R.A.B.I. firmly in the national prior to preparing for a trip-of-a-lifetime media spotlight over recent years, to Myanmar with his wife Viv. for which the charity is most grateful. Philippa joined R.A.B.I. as regional Bob started work with R.A.B.I. in March manager south west in 2010 before 2003 and has helped spread the word she moved up to join the head office about R.A.B.I. throughout East Anglia. team two years later. One of her last Prior to joining R.A.B.I., Bob worked at ‘engagements’ for R.A.B.I. was at the British Sugar, where he spent 23 years Right: Bob Oxford Farming Conference where as an area manager. Archibald Philippa (centre) and her Farming Help counterparts were able to tell HRH The Taking over the region as manager is Below: Linda Princess Royal more about the support Lucy Bellefontaine, who looks forward Peters (right) needed in the farming community. to meeting supporters in the east. Lucy hands over formerly worked for G’s Growers near to Cathy Ely – so it will be home from home for Denslow her at R.A.B.I.’s Meet The Chairman event in April, which is kindly being hosted there by the Shropshire family.

R.A.B.I. also thanks the directors of the Oxford Farming Conference, the NFU and other organisations for inviting the charity to attend their conferences which provide such excellent opportunities to meet supporters and Welcome also to Cathy Denslow, discuss issues affecting . regional welfare officer for south Thank you also to the national winter England, who has settled into her role shows, which attract thousands of R.A.B.I. welcomes Rob Harris to Shaw after taking over from Linda Peters visitors each year, providing ideal House as Communications Officer. following her retirement. We wish Linda platforms for our regional managers and Rob was formerly editor of The Forester well after her ten years with R.A.B.I., committees to spread the word about R.A.B.I. and to raise funds. newspaper in the Forest of Dean so unusually in two separate stints, one is well qualified to take charge of fundraising and the second in welfare. R.A.B.I. News in future! Rob, who is also Cathy joins us from South Somerset a published author and a winner of District Council where she has worked Gloucestershire’s Media Sport Writer since 1999 in numerous roles. She now of the Year award, will be responsible works for R.A.B.I. three days a week for promotional, press and p.r. and the Council for two days. Cathy communications, working alongside has a wealth of knowledge on the UK’s Milly Withers who looks after the complex benefits system which is very charity’s digital communications. important for a welfare officer.

Emma Gibson The English Winter Fair took place at the Staffordshire County Showground and We are very sad to report the was attended by regional manager Kate Jones, pictured, with Staffordshire sudden death of Emma Gibson, NFU county adviser Jeremy Lowe. head of HR and admin, who passed Meanwhile, Linda Jones regional away at the end of February. manager for Wales and committee Emma’s loss has been felt by so members raised nearly £1,000 selling many people involved with R.A.B.I., cards and calendars during two busy where she was held in high regard days at the Royal Welsh Agricultural and with great affection. Society’s Winter Fair; Cambridgeshire She will be hugely committee had a stand at LAMMA and the organisers of the third Multi Breed missed. Calf Show, which aims to promote young people within the beef industry, raised £160 for R.A.B.I. from a raffle.

WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 5 One year on… By Pam Wills, regional manager Farmhouse Breakfasts South West

… and support for Somerset farmers who were affected by last year’s flooding from R.A.B.I., Farming Community Network (FCN) and other organisations remains strong. The Plough Sunday service at Middlezoy in January looked back on a very difficult year but also looked forward in a positive way. I am pleased that R.A.B.I. and FCN worked so closely together during the Ladies in Pigs sell out at Shaw House past year to provide pastoral support, practical help and domestic grants. All over the country, generous committee volunteers, Suzie Paton, our regional welfare companies and individual supporters have been officer, wrote movingly in R.A.B.I. News bringing home the bacon for R.A.B.I. with a sizzling last year. She helped so many farming array of Farmhouse Breakfasts, big and small. families in her very kind and gentle Thank you to everyone who took part. We cannot way and R.A.B.I. gave out £149,000 to begin to cover all events here in R.A.B.I. News, farming people in Somerset in 2014, but we can give you a taste of what was on offer. including to families that had been affected by flooding as well as other domestic grants to individuals. A flat-out fry-up for R.A.B.I. Picks up For FCN, it was the busiest year since Ladies in Pigs Uni’s support they began to operate in Somerset 20 Record orders for breakfasts at head Students at the University of years ago. As well as visits to and phone office meant the wonderful Ladies Nottingham’s Sutton Bonington calls from affected farmers, FCN held in Pigs were stretched to the limit campus declared the Farmhouse four ‘Farmers Suppers’ in different areas satisfying demand. More than £500 was Breakfast supplied and cooked which gave local farmers a chance to raised, as our cover picture shows, by Picks Organics, members of the get together socially and talk about neighbouring businesses bagged Sutton Bonington Farmers’ Market their experiences during the flooding bacon and bangers from the mobile Society, an unqualified success! in a relaxed atmosphere. kitchen in the Oxford h.o.car park. Thanks go to Alistair Wright, treasurer of the market and crop science PhD The three Farming Help charities – R.A.B.I., For the seventh year running, Ladies in Pigs, an organisation that works student at Nottingham, who helped FCN and the Addington Fund – held a organise the event. ‘Fit for Farming Breakfast’ at Sedgemoor passionately to increase awareness market to inform professional people, of the pig industry, served their prize- local agencies and organisations winning pork products from their East Sussex top £2,400 about help available for their clients. mobile kitchen. Farmhouse Breakfast in Hellingly, Each charity gave a presentation Despite having greatly increased the East Sussex is so popular that the and Dr Andrew Tressider spoke of how number of breakfast rolls available, event has moved from Jill and Brian important it is for farmers to see their organisers Suzy Deeley, development Hesslegrave’s kitchen into the village GPs early about mental and physical manager, and Jenni Thompson, hall for the second year running. It health issues. The event also gave regional manager, were disappointed was all go from 8.30am until 1.30pm the local community the opportunity to have to turn away custom. Amazingly, for the Hesslegraves, regional to campaign for funding for a public Rebecca Watts of NatWest stepped manager Sally Field and a team of access defibrillator at the market. up and fulfilled her colleagues’ orders volunteers who served 200 breakfasts herself, raising £71, for which R.A.B.I. and raised more than £2,400 of February 2014, in particular, was a busy is most grateful. Jenni said “What which a generous £1,000 was match- month when I worked with others on better way to start your Friday than funding from Barclays. the huge task of ensuring that farmers with a British bacon bap? The money needing forage would be supplied we raised here could cover the cost quickly and efficiently. Co-ordination of a year’s lifeline rental for three for this was then taken on by Somerset vulnerable and elderly people, giving County Council and FWAG. Looking them much needed independence.” back, for me the experience was overwhelming physically and emotionally as events unfolded, but Breakfast like a King also inspirational thanks to the Thank you to all corporate supporters incredible and generous support that who have held breakfasts for us was given to the farmers and to R.A.B.I. including Kingshay, independent from across the country. I was very dairy specialists, of West Bradley near proud to be part of the team that could Glastonbury, who donated £60 via help then and continues to do so now. R.A.B.I.’s Just Giving page.

6 NATIONAL NEWS Durham dream team Worcestershire sauce? The fundraising farmhouse breakfast The annual Farmhouse Breakfast Week hosted by Sam Turner & Sons at event attracted a healthy crowd Piercebridge, Co Durham raised a at Rowberry’s Nursery, Chaddersley marvellous £530 for R.A.B.I. Organised Corbett and £1,400 will be split by the Durham committee and between R.A.B.I., Air Ambulance and supported by H&H Land & Property, The Stroke Association. the event was a huge success and also featured a cheque presentation by Kent’s recipe for success Caroline Wilson who donated £2,600 Kent have been cooking up their With compliments from her Great North Run in 2014. usual combination of successful Westlands Farm Shop in Hampshire Farmhouse Breakfasts at a variety of kicked off R.A.B.I.’s Farmhouse Great breakfast at Griggs venues: a fantastic fry-up at the Kings Breakfast campaign when they A great big breakfast at Griggs Head, Bessels Green raised £952.50; served 40 breakfasts and raised nearly Restaurant in St Austell attracted 37 people cleaned their plates at £250! Guests enjoyed breakfast at the 210 supporters of R.A.B.I. and the the Dirty Habit, Hollingbourne, Kent family run farm shop and tea room, Addington Fund raising more than raising £430; breakfasters dug deep which offers free range pork, beef £3,500 for the two charities. Organised at Millbrook Garden Centre to raise and lamb from the farm. They even by Dawn Cardell from Probus and Ian more than £500; at Ashford £727.50; took to Twitter to offer praise. Bell of Addington Fund, donated local Stalisfield £400 and at Elham Vale breakfast produce was cooked by the Vineyard a further £500+. Thank you to Spring is in the air! staff at Griggs and served to the mix all who organised or attended these Raising funds was the object and of farming and business people. Dawn and other Kent breakfasts. raise funds they did at the Spring Barn said: “It was a great morning and breakfast hosted by East Sussex. thanks go to MA Griggs who hosted A grand morning! the event and their staff who looked Bartholomew’s Barn, Kirdford, makes after everyone so well and served up a a delightful setting for the annual delicious breakfast! It is great to have breakfast where the West Sussex the continued support of Barclays’ committee, accompanied by agriculture team from St Austell and regional manager Sally Field, raised also the generous donations of the £1,000 serving local produce to 105 food for the breakfast from local farming and business supporters. farmers and producers.”

Top, from left: Caroline Wilson, John Pulton, Top: Worcestershire’s breakfast. Sally Conner, Will Reah, Lorna Maughan, David Maughan and Marjorie Reah. Above: Warwickshire’s breakfast. Above: Pam Wills, R.A.B.I. regional Top right: The East Sussex breakfast. manager (second left) and Dawn Cardell, Centre right: Thank you to Tony Tickle Cornwall committee chairman (fifth from and Karen Smeed (NFU) for organising left) with Barclays breakfast guests. breakfast for 46 at Manor Farm Barn, Left: Mel Ellis, Agriculture Manager of Southfleet. Barclays, in the kitchen at Hellingly. Bottom right: Bartholomew’s Barn, Inset: Thumbs up from happy breakfasters West Sussex. at Hellingly.

WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 7 Regi nal News R.A.B.I. has 50 county committees in England and Wales which work at local level to raise awareness as well as funds. We are grateful for their support as well as that from groups such as the YFC, NFU and FUW, and the businesses who back us too. For more stories and photographs please see www.rabi.org.uk. 2014 festive funds 1

Our thanks to all those who raised committee for providing food and festive funds in 2014 drink. £791 was raised on the night.

1 A carol service held at Wigton Mart 5 R.A.B.I. Montgomeryshire raised a fantastic £1,800. The sale ring committee held their annual was decorated with fairy lights and Christmas carol concert at Welshpool Christmas garlands and local children Livestock Centre by kind permission of performed a nativity play. Our thanks Welshpool Livestock Sales. Tony Evans to Hopes Auctioneers, Aspatria from the centre welcomed everyone, Farmers, David Allen, Beaty and Co, guest soloist Gethin Bikerton sang 2 Belle Vue Vets, Carrs Billington, Marrs some traditional and modern Welsh Benson and Tynedale Farm Services language carols,Welshpool High for their generous support and to School Orchestra accompanied the Reverends Richard Teal and Chris congregation and local male-voice Blackshaw for conducting the service. choir, Only Trefeg Aloud, entertained. Our thanks to Wynnstay for their £50 2 R.A.B.I. supporter, Doris Buckle (right), from Leicestershire held her annual Christmas Quiz at Glooston 3 Village Hall and raised £822.

3 The inaugural Christmas carol concert at Ruthin Mart was hailed a success. Welsh tenor and local farmer, Trebor Edwards and YFC members Elis Jones and Sion Eilir performed traditional and modern carols, accompanied by Ann Edwards and Menai Edwards along with the Ysgol Brynhyfryd Brass Band. Our thanks to Sian Edwards, who compered the evening and to the 4 Wynnstay Group, Morgans of Ruthin, Iceland, Asda, Tesco and Llawr Betws, for the refreshments as well as Fineline Printing & Stationery for printing the programme. A total of £640 was raised, including £200 from Ruthin Farmers Auction who held a collection at their Christmas Mart, and a £100 donation from Treuddyn YFC.

4 The annual Isle of Wight Lavender Farm carol service attracted 80 5 guests who filled the tea room with song, poems and stories. Canon Graham Morris led proceedings with Karen Sheath on piano and Howard Johnson entertained with hilarious readings. Thanks go to the Abbott family for allowing R.A.B.I. and guests to use their tea room and to the

8 REGIONAL NEWS 6 Top: Bethan Jones, David Price and auction ring. Guided by Revd Mark Sian Healey. Betson, 90 guests celebrated with traditional songs to mark the end of Centre: R.A.B.I. regional manager the harvest season and the beginning Jenni Thompson and R.A.B.I. Hampshire of Christmas. The event raised £500 committee member Christine Haynes. and thanks go to South East Marts, the café’s Colin and Roz Keeley for the refreshments, and to all the local sponsors. donation and Hanratty Solicitors, Newtown, for a £100 donation 8 Shropshire R.A.B.I. county secretary, towards the event, which raised £831. Moira Roberts, held an ‘Over the Hill’ birthday celebration with R.A.B.I. as 6 Brecon & Radnor committee her chosen charity in lieu of gifts. The 7 members held a Christmas carol dress code was ‘A Hint of Christmas’ service at St Mary’s Church in Builth so Shawbury Village Hall, Shropshire Wells. The congregation was treated saw a great selection of Christmas to carols by David Price and Sian jumpers, tinsel and Santa hats! Healey from Brecknockshire YFC and readers included R.W.A.S. Chief The night, which featured bingo led Executive Steve Hughson; High Sheriff by Santa (aka Shropshire committee of Powys Philip Bowen; chairman of member Mervin Mullard), made Brecknock YFC Bethan Jones and an incredible £2,150 for R.A.B.I. Our vice-chair of the committee Elaine thanks to Moira, friends and family. Stephens. R.A.B.I.’s honorary chaplain The North Yorkshire A1 West Revd Canon Glyn Evans was guest Committee held a successful speaker. Our thanks to the Co-op in 8 Christmas concert at Swinton Park, Builth Wells and Tesco in Llandrindod Masham by kind permission of the Wells for the mince pies and Liz Kirlew Cunliffe-Lister family, and raised more and Abbie Hook for supplying a fruit than £800. The audience was treated punch. A collection on the evening to singing and poetry by Musicality raised £175. followed by refreshments.

7 R.A.B.I. regional manager Jenni Courtesy of BJP Marts, R.A.B.I. Thompson said: “I’d like to thank Carmarthenshire committee held Salisbury Market and Southern three days of raffles atCarmarthen Counties Auctioneers for their Livestock Centre. More than £1,048 generosity in inviting R.A.B.I. to have a was raised. Above, from left: ‘Over the Hill’ stand at the sale.” partygoers Rose Jones, Keith Roberts, Members of the Pytchley Hunt regional manager Kate Jones, Moira Nottinghamshire R.A.B.I. was invited to (Northamptonshire) collected £418 for Roberts and Wynn Roberts. host a carol concert at the Welbeck R.A.B.I. during a Christmas meet. Estate by kind permission of Mr and As 2014 drew to a close the Mrs Parente. There was a sell-out Buckinghamshire committee crowd and a massive £3,000 was continued to work hard promoting raised! R.A.B.I. at primestock events in the Thanks to Reverend Mark Betson county, including Thame and Winslow for leading the proceedings and and the Farol toy fair. The committee Rosemary Thompson for playing also held their annual dinner at the piano at an evening of carols, Claydon House where £806 was quirky stories and poems at Petworth raised from a raffle. Reformed Church. The resulting £250 9 Two hundred mince pies were was divided between R.A.B.I. and made by Gloucestershire committee FCN. for the Cirencester Livestock Market The fourth annual Christmas carol Christmas Primestock Show. Thanks evening in aid of R.A.B.I. and FCN at go to Voyce Pullin auctioneers for Hailsham Livestock Ring, East Sussex, allowing us to share their stand. A was so popular it had to move from turkey, donated by Pound Farm Shop, its usual position to the larger livestock raised £100 at auction and, with a raffle and sales of merchandise, the proceeds totalled £840. Festive spirit abounded at Salisbury Market as Christmas shoppers 9 flocked to buy Christmas cards and Mary Wathen, draw tickets. R.A.B.I. also raised over secretary, helps raise £200 in a day of fundraising at the £100 with the Pound Salisbury Christmas Prize Show & Sale Farm donated prize at Southern Counties Auctioneers, turkey. Salisbury. WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 9 In short West Sussex committee members celebrate award R.A.B.I. committee members, Derek and Vicki Crush, were recognised at the Sussex Food & Drinks Awards, winning the Sussex Farmers’ Market of the Year award for the Steyning Farmers’ Market. Derek and Vicki founded the A quiz night organised by the market and have run it for over 15 years, juggling this with running their Hampshire committee in Bishops own farm as well as organising and Waltham was attended by attending fundraising events for R.A.B.I.. Hampshire 180 people and raised more than They received their award from farmer’s £1,500. Special thanks go to daughter and Olympic champion Sally Hampshire YFC for manning the bar. Gunnell. R.A.B.I. regional manager Sally quiz success! Field said: “The contribution made by Derek and Vicki to R.A.B.I. over the last 10 years has been enormous; as well as hosting an annual skittles evening which raises around £1,000 a year, they organise farm walks and even donated the proceeds from a cookery book compiled through the farmers’ market. It’s fantastic that their contribution to local produce has been recognised.” The Spice is Right for Shropshire! The Shropshire committee spiced things up when more than 60 guests gathered for an all-you-can-eat buffet at Ford, near Shrewsbury. Around £300 was raised on the night. East Yorkshire committee held an afternoon of entertainment at Kilham Village Hall, near Driffield, with Ken Jackson from the Singing Farmers and his family entertaining a capacity audience and raising £700. Northumberland retirement Members of the Northumberland From left: Northumberland Committee From one field to another – committee, along with regional - Suzette Milne, Janet Dodds, Warwick John Davies Charity Testimonial manager, Sally Conner, gathered to Milne, Stoker Frater and Mainland Welsh International rugby star, John thank Mainland Dodds and his wife Dodds. Davies, has chosen R.A.B.I. as one of the Janet for their hard work over the last charities to benefit from three events 20 years. Their support and enthusiasm taking place in his honour this spring at will be missed by all. Crymych Rugby Club, Pembrokeshire. John, who farms in the county, played over 600 games of first class rugby, first for Neath then Richmond RFCs, before joining the Scarlets. John’s career included 34 international caps for Wales (1991-1998) and he is widely regarded as one of the best tight head props in world rugby. The first charity event is a fashion show on Thursday evening, 30 April, with a Testimonial Dinner the following evening (Friday, 1 May). Guest speakers include Derek Bevan, who refereed the World Cup final between England and Australia in 1991 and the 1997 European Cup final. Tickets cost £50. The following day, Crymych RFC will take on a team of former internationals. Tickets are £25 to include match entry, A wassailing we go … programme and a curry. For more information, please contact Linda Long-standing R.A.B.I. supporters, trees now duly woken up from their Jones, R.A.B.I. regional manager for Alan and Carolyn Hewitt, organised a winter slumber and serenaded in the Wales on 07557 363016 or linda.jones@ traditional wassailing evening on their time-honoured way, we should all look rabi.org.uk farm in Cheshire, raising £220. With the forward to a fruitful 2015.

10 REGIONAL NEWS Fifty years of R.A.B.I. support Floral art raises £4,000

West Sussex Farm Women’s Club has supported R.A.B.I. for more than 50 years. Members (above) raised £390 in That’s the spirit! donations at a coffee morning hosted An evening at the Warner Edwards gin by member Jessie Dinnis. The Farm distillery in Northamptonshire proved A flower festival held at the home of Women’s Club is a national friendship just the tonic for successful fundraising. farmers Wilf and Pam Lomas and in club for country women and is run at a £600 was raised when Tom Warner the village church in Byley, Cheshire local level all over the country. and Sion Edwards, who each have a raised around £4,000 for R.A.B.I. The farming background, put on a sell-out two locations were decorated taking evening of gin tasting. Tom and Sion, inspiration from TV programmes – Ceredigion who met at agricultural college Harper the Church had a Songs of Praise Adams, run their company from a makeover and artistic arrangements converted barn at the Warner’s family for Strictly Come Dancing and milestones farm. Since opening for business at the could also be spotted in end of 2012, they have developed this modern and traditional flower various artisan spirits, including the show. Around 1,500 people visited Harrington Dry Gin, the bottle that the Lomas’s farm during the festival launched their business. R.A.B.I. regional and we would like to thank them and manager Milly Wastie said: “We want the Cheshire area of the National to say a massive thank you to everyone Association of Flower Arrangement who attended the event, and to Societies for their generous donation. Warner Edwards for inviting us to such a ‘gin-uinely’ enjoyable evening!” Hunt donations Derbyshire R.A.B.I. chairman Angela Sargent collected a cheque donation from the Meynell Hunt for £500, the result of several fundraising events throughout 2014. In Wiltshire, the From left: Des Jones, Ceredigion Tedworth Hunt kindly donated £388.75 R.A.B.I. county committee member, to R.A.B.I. and Jenni Thompson Gwilym Williams, Ceredigion Treasurer, received the cheque from them. Malcolm Thomas, R.A.B.I. national deputy chairman and Steve Hunt, Ceredigion chairman. At the Ceredigion committee’s 25th anniversary dinner in Ciliau Aeron, R.A.B.I. national chairman Chris Riddle thanked everyone for their tireless effort in raising funds and awareness in the county. A celebratory cake was baked by committee member Dilys Morgan and a total of £1,953 was raised on the evening when Chris also presented a long service award to Gwilym Jenkins, honorary Snakes alive! president and a founder member of Residents at R.A.B.I.’s Burnham-on- the committee. Sea residential home, Beaufort House Meanwhile, at the Winter Fair had a few surprises in store when in Llanelwedd, Gwilym Williams Secret World visited. In an ‘interactive’ presented a cheque for £7,000 to afternoon, they got close up to a barn Malcolm Thomas, R.A.B.I. national owl, kestrel, ferret and corn snake – deputy chairman, as a result of events too close for some, but not for Naomi held throughout 2014 in Ceredigion. Vowles (pictured above)!

WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 11 now plans to cycle from Yorkshire to Cambridge with his son and auction In short Tri-cycle the bike again in aid of R.A.B.I. Regional manager Sally Conner said: Pembrokeshire Sunday Lunch success story “This bike has already had an unusual 60 people attended a Sunday lunch life and we look forward to seeing at the Plas Hyfryd Country Hotel where it ends up next and how much in Narbeth, organised by R.A.B.I. it raises!” Pembrokeshire Ladies committee. Among the guests were NFU president The President’s Ball was attended by Meurig Raymond with his wife Hilary and 220 guests and raised £5,500 on the NFU Cymru president Stephen James and evening, with proceeds split equally his wife Joyce. R.A.B.I. deputy chairman between R.A.B.I. and the Driffield Malcom Thomas gave an update on Agricultural Society. the charity’s work before lunch. Ticket sales and a raffle made £382. An un-frog-ettable night! Just the ticket! The R.A.B.I. Clwyd committee frog racing event held in Wrexham raised £500. Burns Night A piper greeted guests at the 10th annual Burns Night dinner organised by R.A.B.I.’s Devon committee at the David Anderson from R.A.B.I. North Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish, which Yorkshire committee with bike attracted 93 supporters and raised around £1,300. winner Lorraine Fishwick (centre) and committee member Denny Gibson. Cards on the table A racing bike that was a raffle prize A whist evening in Northchapel, West at the 2014 Great Yorkshire Show has Sussex, raised over £200 thanks to been donated back to the charity organisers Pauline Matthews, Amanda again. The draw at Countryside Live Harman and NFU Pulborough. in Harrogate in October was won by Totnes cheque Lorraine Fishwick from Selby raising The Merionethshire committee held a a fantastic £1,500. Lorraine kindly day of raffle ticket selling at the mart in Devon R.A.B.I. committee was presented with a cheque for £1,000 donated the bike back as a silent Dolgellau, raising £245. Our thanks to from Totnes & District Show Society. auction lot at the R.A.B.I. and Driffield Farmers’ Marts Dolgellau for allowing The South Devon show has supported Agricultural Society’s President’s Ball the committee to attend and well R.A.B.I. for many years. in December where it raised a further done to the members who braved the £377. Winner Martin Stephenson rain and cold! Promise auction raises thousands A promise auction held in aid of R.A.B.I. at Whiston Village Hall, Staffordshire, raised more than £6,000, with thanks to Rochester Cathedral Barclays for providing £1,000 match- funding and George and Daisy Fallows for the auction. Plough Sunday Strixton Manor charity auction A Plough Sunday service took place at Rochester Cathedral with proceeds to R.A.B.I. and FCN. In a An auction evening at Strixton Manor tradition that goes back to Victorian times, the service Farm near Wellingborough raised nearly £5,000. Lots included the loan of a is associated with the first working day after the twelve New Holland tractor, an afternoon of days of Christmas, hence ‘Plough Monday’ in some hospitality at Bedford Rugby Club and a places. In days when work was scarce in winter, the supply of fuel. R.A.B.I. regional manager observance looked forward to the time of sowing with for the East Midlands Milly Wastie said: the promise of a harvest to come. R.A.B.I.’s honorary “We’re grateful to Ellacotts accountants chaplain Revd Canon Glyn Evans delivered the for their support and to David and Anne sermon. Hutchinson for kindly hosting us in their wonderful home.” Zany Zip Wire adventure Taking on the mighty Zip Wire challenge in Bethesda, North Wales, in aid of R.A.B.I. were welfare manager for the north, Christophine Goss and regional welfare officer, Jackie Clegg. Around £3,000 was raised at the event organised by Mel Jones and tickets sold out so quickly that there is another chance to take part in May.

12 REGIONAL NEWS YFCs & colleges

To all our young supporters in young 6 farmers’ clubs and colleges, we thank you!

Belper YFC: Derbyshire 2 R.A.B.I. chairman Angela Sargent received a cheque for £135 from Drew Bailey, Jess Mills and Sarah Booth. Shropshire YFC collected 7 almost £130 at their annual carol service in December. 2 Kenn Valley YFC 4 Orleton YFC raised £400 chose R.A.B.I. as during Welly Week. one of the charities Wedmore YFC raised to benefit from their a fantastic £2,000 at year of fundraising in their Welly Disco last 2014. Devon R.A.B.I. autumn. The club holds committee chairman, a disco every year Celia Hyland talked to which is popular with the group about the year’s Oxfordshire Young raised an amazing listened intently to YFC members across the charity, received a Farmers’ Federation £11,026 for the two R.A.B.I. trustee, William whole of Somerset. donation and enjoyed annual County Show charities! Since 2008 Cumber, who was a a display of wreath- 1 Tregaron YFC raised and Rally which took Stowmarket Young guest speaker at the making. £400 by pushing a place in the grounds Farmers have donated RAG gala dinner. Millie quad bike with no 3 Chairman Kate of Ditchley Park, as more than £39,000 to Mantle, RAU students’ engine for 20 miles Henderson and other well as collecting funds worthy causes. union chairman, said at their club dinner. “William’s speech went around the Elan Valley members of Enstone Back to school! Visitors to the show got 6 down so well - I have Reservoir, over the Teifi YFC presented a R.A.B.I.’s south west the chance to enjoy never noticed the Pools and returning to cheque to R.A.B.I. regional manager, Pam learning about crafts, students so quiet and Tregaron. Club members regional manager Jenni Wills, went back to the sheep shearing and see interested in someone presented the cheque Thompson. Enstone classroom when she tug of war competitions speaking before.” to representatives of YFC raised £2,000 in visited Brymore School. between the clubs. the R.A.B.I. Ceredigion 2014. The club hosted As well as discussing R.A.B.I. was delighted to Highlight of the day was committee. and raised funds at this many of the issues that be one of three charities a parade of floats, each farmers face today, she to be supported during 1 decorated by one of was also presented with the week and Matthew the county’s six Young a cheque for £50 which Davey, RAG chairman Farmers’ clubs and was raised during Welly for 2014/15 along with designed around movie Week. RAG secretaries Rachel themes. Watling and Kitty 4 Chase YFC treasurer 7 Extended level 3 Campbell (pictured) Grace Holt (left), diploma agriculture organised a fantastic chairman Nicki Hand- students and friends at range of events. Pugh and secretary Sparsholt College wore As well as the gala Laura Owen (right) their Christmas jumpers dinner, fundraising 3 presented R.A.B.I. for a full week – all to activities included an regional manager Kate raise money for R.A.B.I.. auction, Beagle meet, Jones with £240 from a 8 The 2015 RAG full moon party, rally, a race night and disco. week at the Royal clay shoot and ‘Take Members had been Agricultural University, me Out’ event as well moved by the personal Cirencester, was a as team tractor pull stories in the film when week to remember. around Cirencester they watched a DVD of Not least as students itself. R.A.B.I.’s work. 8 5 Stowmarket YFC held a charity fundraising 5 night in Creeting St Peter in aid of R.A.B.I. and St Elizabeth Hospice. More than 300 people attended the event and an auction, which featured a stay in a luxury cottage in Aldeburgh and a night out in a Reliant Robin,

WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 13 Corporate and group supporters

Thanks for your support! 1 Sweepstake supports

1 NFU Mutual in Colchester gave their R.A.B.I. office a festive feel with a Christmas Contestants in the second annual Jumper Day for R.A.B.I.. NFU Horncastle & Coningsby branch 2 Mid Gwynedd NFU branch sweepstake, held in aid of R.A.B.I., had chairman, Aled Jones, presented a their work cut out when they tried to cheque for £1,000 to R.A.B.I. regional 2 match the price of 2014’s feed wheat manager Mel Jones. as published in on 21 November. 3 More than £800 was raised from a charity auction held during a day The outcome was announced at the of seasonal shopping at the new branch’s annual meeting with Douglas Holsworthy livestock market Christmas Laird declared winner by guessing poultry sale. The team of auctioneers £123 per tonne, with the actual from Kivells conducted the sale of 100 price standing at £120 per tonne. Mr lots, which included toy tractors and Laird, a local farmer was presented trailers kindly donated by John Deere with the Ray Curtis memorial trophy dealership, Smallridge Bros. and a cheque for £150, with R.A.B.I. 3 also receiving a £150 donation. NFU Thank you to the organisers of the Horncastle & Coningsby had also firstMidlands Machinery Show in donated £2,250 from their annual Nottinghamshire and AB Components dinner dance in 2013. who donated the use of a stall where local R.A.B.I. chairman Robert Bower R.A.B.I. regional manager Milly was like a machine himself, doing a Wastie said: “It’s wonderful to receive ‘great trade’ on our behalf. continued support from the NFU 4 branch and farming community within 4 Staffordshire and Birmingham Lincolnshire.” Agricultural Society Ladies Committee nominated R.A.B.I. to benefit from the proceeds from two raffles. Daisy Hadleigh Farmers Shelley (right in our picture), who is also joint chairman of R.A.B.I. have a ball Staffordshire committee with her To celebrate their 175th anniversary husband Mike, presented a cheque year, Hadleigh Farmers Agricultural for £1,000 to regional manager Kate Association (HFAA) held a charity ball Jones. at Le Talbooth, Dedham. 160 members and guests enjoyed an evening of 5 Market Harborough Farmers’ food, wine and dancing, combined Discussion Group in Leicestershire 5 with a silent charity auction which donated £500 following a talk given raised in excess of £6,000 for their by R.A.B.I. regional manager Milly chosen charities, R.A.B.I. and the East Wastie (right). The money was raised Anglian Air Ambulance. from the proceeds of the group’s end of year annual dinner and the Chris Partridge, chairman of HFAA cheque presented by Jim Mount, said: “We were delighted to be able chairman. to support such a worthwhile cause as R.A.B.I. and would like to thank the R.A.B.I. regional manager, Jenni sponsors of the charity ball whose Thompson was invited by law firm support combined with the generosity Brethertons to a drinks reception 6 of the guests helped to raise such a in Banbury, where she had the significant amount.” chance to meet customers and raise awareness of R.A.B.I.’s work. She also attended the Barclays, Ellacotts and Robinson &Hall business seminars event, where £90 in card sales was raised. 6 Farm Gate Veterinary Services, Lancaster, said goodbye to retiring vet George Robin, seen here cutting his creative cake, Instead of presents, George kindly asked for donations to be shared between R.A.B.I. and Arthritis Research UK and we wish him a very happy retirement. 14 REGIONAL NEWS Wynnstay announces new support for R.A.B.I. P&L golf day is a hit Agricultural retail specialist Wynnstay P&L AgriConsulting Limited donated Group has chosen to support R.A.B.I. to R.A.B.I. and the West Midlands Air this year alongside the company’s Ambulance following a charity golf existing relationship with the National day. The event raised £800 and Peter Federation of Young Farmers Clubs. Slark, organiser, said: “We felt this was a great opportunity to raise money Wynnstay’s chief executive, Ken for two charities especially relevant Greetham presented Linda Jones, to farmers and the rural community”. R.A.B.I.’s regional manager for Wales, Will Phillips added: “This was our first with an initial donation of £500 and attempt at a charity event; next year the group will continue to raise funds we hope to run it again to raise even throughout 2015. more money. Many thanks to all those Sian Probert, from Wynnstay, said: who supported us.” “Agriculture is a core part of our business and we try to support agriculturally focused causes and fundraising events that reflect this. We feel that R.A.B.I does a very important job to support the needs of farmers and their families.” Early on the list of fundraising activities, Wynnstay staff organised a Christmas Jumper Day. Animal welfare heroes Following hundreds of entries and much deliberation, veterinary health specialist Ceva, has announced the shortlist for its annual Animal Welfare Awards. The awards, now in their fourth year, aim to recognise those who have gone Muddy Matches the extra mile to help better the lives of animals around the world, be they clean up volunteers, charity workers or veterinary R.A.B.I. has received a £1,432 donation professionals. after winning a public vote to With the support of several charities receive the proceeds of dating and including R.A.B.I, Ceva received their friendship website Muddy Matches biggest response yet to the call for DB Club donates £750 ‘Messagathon’ event. nominations, with entries submitted Chris Maddison of the David Brown The vote ran in November and saw from all sections of the animal health Tractor Club presented Georgina healthy competition between three and welfare world. Lamb, R.A.B.I. regional manager farming charities (R.A.B.I., FACE and The 2015 shortlist for the category in north west, with a donation of £750 FCN). At times during the month, R.A.B.I association with R.A.B.I. and N.A.D.I.S when she visited the dedicated and FACE were just one vote apart, but (Farm Animal Welfare Award) museum in Meltham, Huddersfield. a final push by R.A.B.I. supporters led to includes James Winslade, farmer on “The club has 1,700 members and a an 18 vote lead. the Somerset Levels who spoke of his fascinating history,” said Georgina, During the Messagathon, 10p per family’s experiences during last year’s pictured here with Chris, club message sent between members on flooding at R.A.B.I.’s 2013 Conference chairman, Neil Singleton (left) and www.muddymatches.co.uk was put and AGM. treasurer, Mike Funnel (right). aside for the charity. Founded by sisters Lucy and Emma #muddywellychallenge takes on Twitter Reeves (pictured), Muddy Matches is a website for people who enjoy a After the success of #wellyweek2014, donated two pairs of Hunter wellies ‘muddy boots lifestyle’ and has over R.A.B.I. supporters prolonged the muddy for the ‘muddiest’ pictures. Darren 100,000 registered members in the UK fun with a #muddywellychallenge. said: “I would like to say a huge thank and Ireland. Organised by Darren Wilson, and in you to everyone who took part in the conjunction with Mole Valley, the aim challenge and donated to R.A.B.I..” We would like to thank the team was to get your wellies or boots as muddy at Muddy Matches, everyone who Hundreds of people took part and as possible, take a picture, post it to voted for R.A.B.I. and of course, all the the lucky winners were @Obviously Twitter and donate by text to the charity. members who messaged during the Emmy from Co. Tipperary and @ Messageathon! Country House Outdoor of Cumbria iluvmudiwellies from Kent.

WEBSITE WWW.RABI.ORG.UK 15 Diary Dates Regional contacts EAST - LUCY BELLEFONTAINE Events organised by or for R.A.B.I. and events where R.A.B.I. will have a Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, presence. For more information contact the regional manager (right). Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire April June (continued) Mobile: 07739 297374 5 Cream Tea, Wren Hall, Wroxhall 10/11 Cereals 2015, Lincolnshire Email: 6 Car Boot, Nantwich 10 Cheshire coach trip to Abbey Cwnhir [email protected] 11 Farmyard Sale, Devon 11 Hodnet Hall garden tour & dinner, 15 Bingo Night, Carmarthen Shropshire 16 Scarsdale Vets Quiz Night, Derby 11/12/13 South of England Show, West Sussex 19 Farm visit and pasty lunch, Devon 12 Golf day, Market Bosworth NORTH EAST – SALLY CONNER 21/23 Auction Ring Ride, East Midlands 12/14 Three Counties Show North Yorkshire, County Durham, 22 Fundraiser, Eathorpe, Warwickshire 16 NSA Sheep SW, Devon Northumberland, East Yorkshire 22 Pub Quiz, South Yorkshire 17 Brockton Gun Club Shoot, Mobile: 07818 093506 23 St George’s Day beef lunch, East Yorkshire Much Wenlock Tel: 01964 541400 23 St George’s Day lunch, Cumbria 17 Farm walk, Nottinghamshire 23 St Georges Day lunch, Dorset 19/20 Cothi Bridge weekend concert & Email: [email protected] 24 Clay shoot, Kent whist drive, Carmarthenshire 26 Shropshire County Chairman’s lunch, Eyton 21 Bowood country fair & dog show 27 Karting at Buckmore Park, Kent 21 Classic car show & Cream Tea, Co Durham SOUTH EAST – SALLY FIELD 27/28 Shrewsbury food festival 22 Golf day, East Yorkshire Hampshire, IOW, Berkshire, 30 Somerset beef supper 23 Auction evening, Hansons of Etwall, Surrey, Sussex, Kent Derbyshire 30 John Davies charity testimonial fashion Mobile: 07799 798441 show, Pembs 23/24 Cheshire Show Tel: 01903 882741 24 Stowell Park Estate tour & garden Party, May Gloucestershire Email: [email protected] 1 John Davies testimonial dinner, Pembs 24/25 Lincolnshire Show 2 John Davies charity testimonial rugby 24 Agricultural Industry charity clay shoot, match & supper, Pembs Goole WEST MIDLANDS - KATE JONES 3 Great British Beef lunch, Northants 27 Isle of Wight show 4 North Somerset Show 27/28 Shrewsbury Food Festival Staffordshire, Shropshire, 8 Singing Farmers concert, Northallerton 28 Blaston Show, Market Harborough West Midlands, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire 9 Clay shoot, Lincolnshire 9/10 Nottinghamshire County Show July Mobile: 07876 492839 9 May Ball, Isle of Wight, 4 Leicestershire Show, Melton Mowbray Tel: 01743 892892 10 Rogation Service, East Sussex 6 Cream Tea, Hampshire Email: [email protected] 10 Rogation Service, Cheshire 9 Gin tasting & farm walk, Northants 10 Cream Tea, York 11 Liskeard Show, Cornwall 10 Singing Farmers concert, Skipton Mart 12 Ashby Show NORTH WEST - GEORGINA LAMB 10 Zip wire challenge, Zipworld Bethesda 12 British 10k run, London Cumbria, , 10 Merionethshire Sunday night supper 14/15/16 Great Yorkshire Show, South & West Yorkshire, 11 Treasure hunt, Lancashire 20/23 Merseyside, Cheshire 16/17 May R.W.A.S. Spring Festival, Llanelwedd 25 Mid Devon Show, Tiverton, Devon Mobile: 07917 114250 17 Singing Farmers concert, Malton 26 Totnes Show, Devon Email: 17 Reaseheath College open day 26 Lowland Games, Muchelney, Somerset [email protected] 19 Welsh NSA, Kerry, near Newtown 28/29/30 New Forest Show, Hampshire 20 Golf day, County Durham 29 Yealmpton Show, Devon 21/23 Devon County Show 30 Forde Abbey Summer Fair, Somerset SOUTH CENTRAL – 23 Shropshire County Show JENNI THOMPSON 23 Heathfield Show, East Sussex August Buckinghamshire, Wiltshire, 25 Northumberland County Show 1 Blakesley Show, Northamptonshire Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire 27/28 Staffordshire County Show 1/8 The National Eisteddfod of Wales, Meifod Mobile: 07919 478518 27/30 Royal Bath & West Show, Somerset 6 Honiton Show, Honiton, Devon Tel: 01460 240950 30/31 ‘Proper Woolly’ at Holsworthy Market 7 Thame Sheep Fair, Oxfordshire Email: 31 Open Garden Day, The Vineyard, 7/9 Royal Lancashire Show [email protected] Weston-under-Redcastle 8 Minsterley Show, Shropshire 31 Tractor run, East Yorkshire 8 Ellingham Agricultural Show, Hampshire EAST MIDLANDS – MILLY WASTIE 31 Rutland Show 13 Okehampton Show, Devon 18/20 Pembrokeshire County Show Lincolnshire, Rutland, June 19 Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, 3 NSA North Sheep, Cockermouth Motcombe, Dorset 4/5/6 Royal Cornwall Show 20 Chagford Show, Chagford, Devon Mobile: 07525 323450 5 Golf day, Gobowen 20 Denbigh & Flint Show Tel: 01788 823739 5 Concert, Masham Town Hall 23 Tony Garside’s farm party, Huddersfield Email: [email protected] 6 Cream Tea, Northumberland 26 Merionethshire Show 6 Cumberland Show 27 Bucks County Show, Aylesbury 7 Myerscough open day, Lancashire 27 Melplash Show, Melplash, Dorset SOUTH WEST - PAM WILLS Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset Mobile: 07825 336224 Notice of AGM Tel: 01749 838682 Notice is hereby given that the 155th Annual General Meeting of the Royal Emails: [email protected] Agricultural Benevolent Institution will be held at The Manor, Weston on the Green, Oxfordshire OX25 3QL on Wednesday 13 May 2015 2.15pm by order of the Counciln of Trustees. WALES - LINDA JONES The afternoon’s formal AGM will be preceded as usual in the morning by the 2015 Mobile: 07557 363016 R.A.B.I. Conference including the presentation of the annual awards for 2014. Tel: 01559 364850 Invitations will be sent to all official members, as well as the charity’s guests. Email: [email protected] A maximum of three people from each county, who are the official members, are entitled to vote.

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