MEET EMILY! - Introducing the 2018 Royal Highland Show icon - RHASS
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RHASS MAGAZINE SPRING 2018 Introducing the 2018 Royal Highland Show icon + 178th Royal Highland Show Preview + Scotland’s Larder Live! • Music • Presidential Area • Judges + RHASS Annual Report Pull-out • Long Service Awards • Moredun Update + Oxford Farming Conference • Nuffield Scholar Report • Farm Succession MEET EMILY! RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 1
Contents
COVER STORIES
6 Nuffield Sponsorship
– Dr Jenna Ross 6
8 Oxford Farming Conference
11 Succession
17 Annual report PULL OUT SPECIAL
21 Netregs – Protecting our waters
22 Say cheese
24 Scottish Farms – we visit
Malcolm Coubrough 17
34 SAYFC – taking the lead
FEATURES
3 RHASS Chairman’s Welcome
4 RHASS news update
13 RHS update
26 RHET news
24
30 RHC events
32 Jo Andrews, Fundraising &
Partnerships Manager
33 Marie Livingstone,
Society Secretary
35 Last word from our
Chief Executive 34
CONTACT DETAILS: RHASS Society magazine Written & produced by
is published by: The Royal Highland and Represent
Agricultural Society of Scotland, Royal Highland 57 Calton Road,
Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8NB Edinburgh EH8 8FJ
Tel: (0131) 335 6200 rhs@representcomms.co.uk
Email: info@rhass.org.uk
Web: www.rhass.org.uk
Charity No. SC004561
2 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018
Welcome
I
count myself privileged to be Chairman I frequently refer to Ingliston as Scotland’s
of RHASS in the year of young people. largest outdoor activity centre, adjacent to
Although my passport and picture the airport terminal, and on the outskirts of
suggests I am not in that category, I am the tourist magnet that is Edinburgh. It is very
much a business centre, and the need to run
fortunate to be surrounded by energetic
it as such has necessitated some changes in
and inspirational staff and Board our bye-laws, which will take us into the 21st
Members whose youthful enthusiasm century on the front foot.
drive me onwards and upwards.
In this year of young people, the Society’s
Everyone is asking about progress on the affiliated education charity RHET is not only
replacement of the MacRobert Building, and teaching thousands of schoolchildren where
the good news is we are hopeful the new facility their food comes from in the Discovery
plans will be on display for your approval at this Centre, but will also be performing in the Main
year’s Show. Ring, with the Young Farmers, in a musical
As you will be aware, over the last twelve “Audience Participation Extravaganza”.
months we have been installing piping and Our Show is all about you and your family.
cabling across the site to improve water Whatever your age, we guarantee to educate,
and Wi-Fi services. This infrastructure work excite and entertain. Please put the dates in
is unseen, but absolutely essential to keep your diary now, the 21 – 24 June, and I look
Ingliston’s top of the range reputation. forward to seeing you all there.
Another new feature in the East car park is
the construction of our very own ‘Beast in
the East’, a 230 bedroom hotel, adjacent to
the roundabout on Ingliston road, primarily
to service the airport, but very handy for our
many Show visitors. Jimmy Warnock, RHASS Chairman
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 3
RHASS NEWS UPDATE
EQUINE
AWARDS
It was great to see so
many familiar faces at
the National Equestrian
Awards 2018 held at the
Airth Castle & Spa in March
(formerly the Horsescotland
Annual Awards). Sponsored
by RHASS, the awards
recognise and reward
outstanding contributions
to the Equestrian
community in Scotland.
WINNERS INCLUDED:
Youth Coach of the Year
– Duncan McFadyen
Youth Volunteer of the Year LONG SERVICE AWARDS
R
– Dawn Edward
Youth Performer of the Year HASS, together with Borders Union Agricultural Society
– Fraser Reed, Equestrian (BUAS), has been recognising long service within the
Business of the Year agricultural and rural industries for 74 years (since
– Sinclair Photography 1944) and to date has presented a total of 651 awards –
Equestrian Photo of the Year covering a staggering 22,803 years of service.
– Sinclair Photography
Employee of the Year The dedication and commitment to our industry is outstanding and
– Lynne Cree, who has worked a number of individuals received their awards at a dinner held at
for Fiona and Andrew Malcolm Border Union Showground earlier this year.
for 22 years as their Head Girl.
18 recipients, with 677 years of service, joined a reception in honour
Equine Breeder of the Year
of their work, with six of the award winners being presented with
– Ronnie Black
their 2nd long service awards - one for 50 years and five for 40 years.
Owner of the Year
– Deborah Thomson and Alec Herkes, pictured, has worked for Marlefield for 50 years with
Belinda McClung three generations of the Goodson family, and said: “I am thrilled to
Club of the Year get this award. I have been on
– Scottish Tetrathlon tractors since I was five and it’s all
Volunteer of the Year I ever wanted to do. I love the job
– Audrey Smart and, even though I am 81, I still
Young Peoples Coach of the enjoy the new technology and the
Year progress made in farm machinery.
– Olivia Wilmot It’s an exciting industry to be in –
Participation Coach of the Year even at my age!”
– Liz Love
Performance Coach of the Year
Five of the farms represented
– Hannah Eccles· have had previous recipients
Writer of the Year
– Easter Softlaw, Hassendean,
– Helene Mauchlen Marlefield, Caverton Mill,
Performer of the Year
Ruletownhead. Credit should also
– Derek Fox be given to them as employers –
Lifetime Achievement
well done everyone involved!
– The Hon Heather To find out more about these
Galbraith MBE awards, visit https://rhass.org.
Special Recognition uk/awards-and-grants/rhass-
– Muriel Colquhoun MBE long-service-awards/
4 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018
FREE ACCESS TO RHASS SUPPORTING
MOREDUN MEMBER INDUSTRY AWARDS
PORTAL RHASS was the proud sponsor of the Scottish
Rural Awards, held at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh.
As associate members of the Moredun Foundation, The night proved to be an inspiring celebration of
RHASS members can now sign up to the Moredun enterprise, innovation, dedication and community
Member Portal giving access to magazines, disease spirit of those who live in rural Scotland.
factsheets, webcasts and member updates.
RHASS also sponsored Scotland's Finest Woods
Moredun, which was established by Scottish Awards, which recognised landowners where tree
farmers in 1920, is committed to promoting planting or woodland management has made an
livestock health and welfare through research important contribution to the farm business and/
and education and is recognised worldwide or the local environment.
for its contribution to research into infectious
diseases of farmed livestock. As the focus on farm Jimmy Warnock, RHASS Chairman said: “Many
efficiencies and the need for responsible use of progressive landowners in Scotland have recognised
medicine increase, the benefits of this research the benefits of incorporating woodland into farm
and information to your business has never been management plans and have invested for the long-
more relevant. term reward for the environment, people and the
economy of Scotland. RHASS is proud to support
Please register at portal.moredun.org.uk/user/ these inspiring individuals and to present the Awards
register and select ‘Associate Membership’, then programme with the RHASS Lilburn Trophy.”
‘RHASS’ and add your RHASS membership number
in the Membership Type section of the form (add The winners of Scotland’s Finest Woods will be
zeros at the front of your number if necessary announced at the 2018 Royal Highland Show in June.
and please ignore any letters). Your membership
number is on the covering letter you receive with
your Show tickets or, alternatively, please email GOOD LUCK TO
membership@rhass.org.uk.
THE FARRIERS IN
EUROPE!
Members of the Scottish National Farrier team will
be heading to Switzerland in June to compete in
the European Farrier championships. What a great
opportunity to represent Scotland in Europe and
we wish them the best of luck!
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 5
NUFFIELD SPONSORSHIP
RIDING THE SLIME WAVE
L
ast October, RHASS
announced their support
for a 2018 Nuffield
Scholarship and, with co-
funding from the AHDB
Cereals and Oilseeds, Dr
Jenna Ross was the successful
candidate. She is currently
travelling the world to gather
global data to enhance slug
control in the UK.
Having grown up on a farm, I business plan to spin-out my
have always had a passion for bio-mollsucicide research. As a
the environment and agriculture. consequence, I was awarded a
I saw first-hand the devastating LANTRA Award for Learner of the
impact that agri pests can have Year 2018, and also received a
on crops, both on a financial, CARAS Award from the Society,
and an emotional level. This very after ranking in the top 10 people
much inspired me to do what I to ever sit the course in its 20-
do now. I conducted my PhD at year history. The MBA has really
the University of Aberdeen, and opened my eyes to how my
this was focused on improving research fitted into the bigger
production efficiency of a bio- picture, and I felt that the Nuffield
molluscicide product for the was the next logical step.
agricultural industry, as well as
The Nuffield is a fantastic
developing new potential markets.
leadership programme, that
I then undertook a postdoctoral moulds the next generation of
Name: Dr Jenna Ross position at the University of agricultural leaders, and that
Aberdeen, before moving to is really where I see myself in
Age: 33 Norway for a short-term contract the future. It not only helps to
focusing on the Spanish slug. develop technical skills, but also
Location: Tarland, Thereafter, I established my own focuses on leadership skills and
Aberdeenshire research group at Stellenbosch building a professional network.
University, South Africa, which
Post Nominals: BSc (Hons), The Nuffield Scholarship has
involves collaborating with the
MBA, PhD, NSch, FCMI three major components to
University of Aberdeen. This is
it: one, your personal study,
focused on developing a new
Degree/Qualifications: which can be anything under
biological molluscicide for the
the ‘agricultural’ umbrella, two,
Level 5 Diploma Management European and African markets.
the Contemporary Scholars
and Leadership – Chartered In addition, in 2013 I spent Conference (CSC), which covers
Management Institute a year’s secondment at the current affairs and leadership
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science International Institute of Tropical skills, and three, a select few
(First Class) – Robert Gordon Agriculture in Dar es Salaam, scholars are chosen to go on a
University educating local farmers on global focus programme. The
PhD Environmental Science – chemical pesticide usage. Global Focus Programme (GFP)
University of Aberdeen aims to visit a variety of countries
I have just finished studying a
to learn about international
MBA (Distinction) – Robert distance learning MBA at Robert
agriculture and bring best
Gordon University Gordon University, and as part
practices home to the UK.
of the course, I put together a
6 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018
As part of my own personal study, As part of my own studies,
I aim to travel to the US, Canada, I will be travelling to the US
Brazil, South Africa, Europe, and Canada to meet with
New Zealand and Australia, in both industry and scientists
order to learn about enhanced who are working to develop a
slug control methods. This new biological molluscicide.
will be done by investigating In Brazil, I will be learning
targeted crops, pest species, about the challenges they are
new product developments facing following a recent slug
(biological, chemical and cultural), biological invasion. In Europe, I
cultural practices, best Integrated will be learning more about the
Pest Management practices, control of the Spanish slug, and
application rates and methods, the future role that chemical
biological invasions and possible molluscicides will play. I will
The greatest opportunity is
quarantine measures. also be linking with an avid
value added-products. It has
gardener who has come up with
As part of the CSC, all the been mentioned time and time
a novel barrier system. In South
international Nuffield scholars again wherever we go. Oregon
Africa I will be meeting with an
travelled to the Netherlands seems to be a prime example
agrochemical company who has
in March. This included of this, thanks to their Food
developed a new application
approximately 80 scholars from Innovation Centre. Another great
strategy for metaldehyde, and
the UK, US, Canada, Brazil, observation so far was the level
in Kenya will be liaising with
France, Ireland, Australia and of collaboration involved in the
a biocontrol organisation. In
New Zealand, along with some oyster production in Oregon.
Australia I am keen to learn
international scholars. At the CSC It was great to see producers
more about their cultural
we learned about the agricultural working side by side with their
practices, and in New Zealand,
industry in the Netherlands, along local university.
how they are preventing future
with field trips to a dairy and
biological invasions with their My final comment about the US
an organic vegetable producer.
quarantine protocols. relates to hazelnut production.
We also worked on our self-
I learned that there aren’t
development, with a focus on So far on my GFP trip we have
enough producers to meet global
leadership and group work. only visited the US, however the
demand, so maybe there is an
one word I would use to describe
As part of the GFP, I am on the opportunity there? I am learning
US agriculture is massive. The
Africa-focused programme. This so much, within different
sheer scale is beyond words.
involves travelling to the US, agricultural sectors, but that
We visited a dairy of 1,700
Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine, applies across the board. I am
cows, however this was small
Kenya and South Africa, along being exposed to so much that
in comparison to those on the
with eight other international relates to UK agriculture, and I
east side of Oregon where a
scholars. The international can’t wait to bring this knowledge
30,000-cow dairy is the norm.
scholars are from Australia, New back and share it with the
Sustainability was definitely
Zealand, Canada, and Ireland, farming community.
something I questioned here.
and I am the only scholar
Before I commenced my study, I
representing the UK. So far, we Access to skilled workforce
met with RHASS' CEO Alan Laidlaw
have travelled to Oregon in the seems to be topical wherever
to discuss how the scholarship
US, and learned about the dairy we travel to, however I really
will benefit the Society and the
industry, oyster production, liked the system introduced
industry as a whole. My short-term
viticulture, beef production, in Tillamook, where the
goal is to spin out my research
wheat marketing, and hazelnut community were involved with
into a feasible applied solution for
processing, all of which had a funding the extension office
the agricultural industry. However,
focus on value added products. and are fully supportive of
my Nuffield Scholarship has really
We have just finished up in training the next generation.
opened up my mind to various
Washington D.C., where the
The US seems to be quite open opportunities, and I would love
group met with officials from the
when it comes to discussing to be involved with moulding UK
USDA to discuss trade, as well
succession planning, but with agricultural policy.
as meeting with the US Senate
the number of farms significantly
Committee on Agriculture,
reducing year on year, I wonder Website: www.drjennaross.com
Nutrition and Forestry to discuss
what the future landscape will
the Farm Bill. Twitter: DrJennaRoss
look like in the US.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 7
OXFORD FARMING CONFERENCE
EMBRACING
CHANGE
S
peaking at the 2018 – one of the first in Scotland. The shed during the summer months
Oxford Farming start of World War 2 put an end and then went on the road to local
Conference in January, to tourism for a while, and it took schools and sports halls when the
Duncan McConchie, from a few years to get the Caravan cows came back inside.
Park back on its feet. In 1970, my
Dumfriesshire, explained how This expanded into clay pigeon
Grandpa and Granny purchased
he has transformed his family shooting. An area on the 5 acres
Laggan Farm, and in 2000 my
farm in Scotland into a hive lent itself perfectly to this so
brothers moved home, Murray to
of activity with visitors from off I went to get trained to be
run the farm, and John to run the
all around the world. instructor. Luckily, I was good at
holiday business.
blagging it and manged to buy a
Set in the heart of Dumfries & In 2007, I decided to move back couple of second-hand traps to
Galloway, on the hills above to get back to the rural way of get up and running.
the Solway coast, you really will life. The farm wouldn’t sustain an
struggle to find a more stunning And then we wanted to be
extra family, and in all honesty my
location. My family have farmed different. Archery and clay pigeon
brothers didn’t want to work with
here since 1911, and as the 4th shooting were on offer at other
me! Necessity really is the mother
generation I am very thankful places. So, we wanted to do
of all inventions. The area had a
for the 107 years of family mountain balling (also known as
thriving tourism industry between
efforts that have preserved and zorbing). We went to New Zealand,
April and October and I had done
managed the landscape. met with the inventor of the Zorb
some research which indicated I
- who wanted £1.5 million to join
Despite leaving home to follow a needed £500,000 to set up. Full
the franchise, and a guaranteed
career in TV7 Media in Yorkshire, of confidence I announced this to
turnover - and decided to try it
I have always had a deep the family who weren’t so keen to
on our own right after watching
appreciation for the landscape in gift me that amount! - and what I
it on YouTube. Dad got on his
South West Scotland. got was 5 acres and £2,500. Can
digger and we went to China to
you imagine the call to my 98-
In my lifetime, my grandparents buy 2 balls. I got in the ball and
old granny, GG, to ask if I could
and my parents, Kerr and we trialled it, learnt lots of lessons
turn her hillside paradise into
Caroline, have farmed and my and adapted until it worked.
an outdoor centre?! But credit to
brother, Murray, now works with her, she embraced change and Segways were the next addition.
them managing the (1,300) acre supported us all the way. There was only one other
beef and sheep farm. Originally, place in Scotland in 2011 doing
my great-grandad was a tenant With £2,500 and 5 acres what do
Segwaying. We bought 4 Segways
of a neighbouring 300-acre farm. you do? Well I went and got taught
the day our twins were born, at
He developed that business and how to be an archery instructor,
£6,500 each. We ran tours up the
diversified to support a growing having never done it in my life
hills overlooking the coastline and
family and set up a caravan site before. I offered classes in the cow
the investment soon paid off.
8 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018
Ever keen to develop and move on, So, what got us here? Well, Scottish
we then looked at doing a zip wire. Enterprise have been absolutely
We had a couple of companies in key to our growth. We were chosen
who saw the area we had at our as an Agri-Tourism monitor farm
disposal. The longest zip wire in which allowed us to embrace
the UK at the time was 380 metres succession. It took 2-3 years of
– so we built what was then the discussions but the business, and
UK’s longest at 820 metres (it’s now that includes the family’s collective
Scotland’s longest!). The scenery is businesses, is now in a much better
amazing and the day we launched position for the future.
was the day the business really
The Rural Leadership Programme
took off. The PR we got from the
really helped me unlock my
media, particularly the TV, was
potential. It gives you confidence
unbelievable.
when so many people don’t take
We did try to get grants, but people you seriously.
didn’t think it stacked up. But we
We borrowed a lot of money
knew it would – and knew our
with a vision to create a rural
passion to make this successful
destination of excellence and that
would pay off. So, we borrowed
is what continues to drive us. It
£100,000 and now get between
soon became apparent we needed
10,000 and 15,000 people a year
accommodation, so we have
doing the zip wire activity.
recently built 10 luxury sea view
With that established, we wanted snugs – this gave us the opportunity
to go one step further, and I saw to package our business. I spent 11
on YouTube an advert for a US soft weeks building the units and Vikki
drink company which had a human did all the interiors.
slingshot. (My wife has since banned
Our most recent project, which was
me from watching YouTube!) I called
opened in Dec 2017, is GG’s Yard
the US company who were no longer
(named after granny and next to
in business, so I sent the video
her house). A £1.9 million build,
to two of the biggest adventure
this development has put us into
construction companies who both
the conferences/wedding venue
said it was not possible to build. I
market, and we already have over
like a challenge so worked with my
100 bookings. We've had a 99%
friend - and engineer – to design
conversion rate for enquiries since
our own. In 2015 we launched the
the venue opened and we have had
human slingshot, after many trials
an amazing response.
(and some personal injuries!) In
all seriousness we did work with The most critical aspect of all this
experts in the design, including RAF is the people. Our team create the
advisors (advising in the forces – we experience. We have 80 people now
get up to 6G and speeds of up to 60 employed during peak season, and
mph in a second). we truly believe in employing the
right people. We select on attitude
With all these activities, it became
and will always employ someone,
clear people also want facilities.
at any time, if I feel they will be an
We spent a few years building a
asset to the business.
40-seater log cabin café on the top
of the hill. We employed 2 chefs Our focus is excellence and a
and a management team to run it. major factor in this is staff. We
A BBQ hut followed with a capacity prioritise upskilling and want to
of 25 – cooking is done on an open allow our staff to develop and
fire, by Jonny who was a street improve. Investing in our people
chef in India. We drive you up in will ultimately be the success of
the Land Rover and it’s perfect for our business.
star gazing – we are in one of the
www.ggsyard.co.uk
UK’s dark sky parks, so the skies
www.lagganoutdoor.co.uk
are incredible.
OXFORD FARMING CONFERENCE
The agricultural industry
is going through a period
of unprecedented change
and Oxford Farming
Conference has always
been at the forefront
over the years.
Introducing New “I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of
the team delivering these world class conferences
which do exactly what they set out to do: Challenge,
Council Member Inform, Inspire” says Sally.
“The agricultural industry is going through a period
Sally Williams - (Berwickshire) of unprecedented change and Oxford Farming
Conference has always been at the forefront over
the years. The real strength of OFC lies in the
Sally, who farms with her parents and sister on a
variety of speakers who address conference. They
dairy and sheep farm in South East Scotland, has
cover topics that aren’t usually associated with an
been appointed on to the OFC Council starting in
agricultural conference. This year for example saw
2019. She is a strong advocate of utilising technology
Eve Turrow Paul talking about Millenials and James
and precision farming methods, with her pedigree
Wong introduced his “meat and three veg” ideal.
Holstein herd being milked by six robotic units. She
is a passionate advocate for educating consumers “By enabling delegates to see the bigger picture,
about food and farming and is a volunteer farmer challenge the status quo, embrace blue sky thinking
for the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET). Sally and take that calculated leap of faith in their own
has a degree in Agriculture and Animal Science, is minds means the conference plays a vital role for
a Scottish Enterprise Rural Leader and is the past businesses, not to mention the opportunities for
National Chairman of the Scottish Association of young people through the Scholars and Emerging
Young Farmers. Leaders programmes.”
10 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018SUCCESSION
ARE YOU
PLANNING FOR
SUCCESSION?
M
anaging a farming, or rural,
business can be challenging.
However, there are some factors
that can be successfully controlled to
minimise future uncertainty. RHASS talks
to Sian Bushell, an experienced facilitator,
“Utilise other sources of information. You can
to hear her views and thoughts on the gain some great ideas and insight into the
often-difficult subject of succession. issues with research. This can result in some
very useful and constructive discussions.
“None of us get out alive and succession will
happen,” says Sian, “And for the best outcome, “Knowledge helps the conversation. But
its necessary to look at the issues, discuss and ultimately, the decisions have to be made by
plan accordingly. the people who will live with it: the family. It’s
really important to acknowledge everyone’s
“There are serious repercussions to decisions
worth in this process – if people feel
you make now and in the future and I want to
undervalued or not recognised it can affect
stress the importance of communication; the
their willingness to cooperate.
biggest problem in the equation. I appreciate
these are often not easy or comfortable “If the business cannot afford certain options,
conversations, but for the future of your then discuss how shortfalls can be made. This is
business, they are essential. extremely important as it can reduce potential
frustration and is good for self-esteem of the
“I want to encourage you, and that relates to
individual.
everyone involved, to be persistent; especially
if a family member is hesitant or refuses to join “Try and understand everyone’s point of view
the conversation. I believe the older generation and what they want from the situation, and talk
should be the ones to start the discussion, often around the kitchen table to make it less of
but failing that the younger members need to a taboo subject.
suggest that the subject is addressed. “Despite the complexities, I believe it is
“I also recommend a neutral venue. And if possible to have a plan that all agree on, but
necessary, involve a 3rd party; one that can start early and involve everyone. And revisit
ask the awkward questions but is respected as circumstances change. Its vital the plan is
by all parties. relevant for it to be implemented successfully.”
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 11SUCCESSION cont.
“Everyone should have
a will – NO EXCUSES”
• Everyone should have a will – NO EXCUSES.
SIAN’S TOP TIPS The contents of the will should be discussed
with the beneficiaries.
• If a young family member is coming back
• Plan for succession as soon as your children
to the business, have a proper plan of
are born. This means that there is time to
integration. This will include where they will
ensure that all children are treated fairly
live, what hours they will work, payment,
without endangering the core business.
responsibilities and how to include them in
• It is good business governance to review the decision making.
succession at least once every year to ensure
• Consider Power of Attorney for those in the
everything is on track and consider any
business.
changes that may have happened.
• Have proper, regular, business meetings
• Talk about succession with the family
to ensure effective communication between
frequently and openly so that it does not
everyone working within the business.
become a taboo subject. Include all family
members who are linked to the business • When considering succession, the assets and
including in-laws. the business should be thought of separately.
• Have a proper plan for retirement. What • Use good professions at every step. Always
does it mean to you? Put a date on when you check with a tax expert before taking any
will be stepping back from the responsibility of course of action. Always have a proper
running the business. Where will you live? Have partnership agreement. Having a clear idea
you enough pension? If not, where will the extra of what you want to achieve means the
come from? If it is from the family business, professional can work to what you want far
calculate exactly how much will be needed each easier. However, succession is not just about
year so it can be part of the business budget. tax. Any plan has to work for the family.
12 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018Royal Highland Show UPDATE
FROM THE
T
he most exciting celebration of food, farming
and rural life is just weeks away and the whole
SHOW Society is a abuzz to ensure we deliver a Show
that is a fitting spectacle for our industry.
MANAGER For four days, consumers and producers share in a
In just a few short weeks, we celebration of the finest food. There is a once-a-year gathering
will be welcoming you to this of impressive livestock, a wide range of machinery and
year’s Show, which is, as we all innovation on display, not forgetting rural skills and fashion,
know, the best of Scotland’s home and lifestyle shopping.
farming, food and rural life. The top judges from far and wide
The standard of exhibitors and
competitors across the Show The task of placing around 6,000 head of the country’s top
are truly outstanding and a cattle, sheep, horses and goats will be in the hands of 41
testament to all the efforts judges from Scotland, 47 from England, 11 from Wales, 9
made by rural businesses and from Northern Ireland and one from the Republic of Ireland.
people throughout the year. Another native champion
I’m sure you will be impressed!
As we celebrate the iconic Scottish Blackface sheep as the
For members, the Show offers ‘face’ of this year’s Show, here are a few highlights from the
a perfect opportunity to learn sheep section:
about the latest industry
innovations and information, The Overall Sheep Inter Breed Championship - James
speak to experts and interact Sinclair from Crookston in Midlothian and the Overall
with like-minded individuals. Sheep Pairs Inter-Breed Championship & Young Handlers
Not forgetting to just spend time Classes, James MacGregor, Dyke Farm, Milton of Campsie,
with old friends not seen since Glasgow. Beltex will be judged by Jonathan Aiken from
last year, perhaps make a few Dromora, Co. Down. Texel class will be the responsibility
new ones and generally have an of Steve Richardson from Mount Pleasant Farm, Great
exciting and enjoyable few days. Houghton, in South Yorkshire. Zwartbles, Rachel Meggarell,
Co. Londonderry.
The Royal Highland has been
a key event in the countryside Full details are available on the Royal Highland Show website.
calendar for 177 Shows and
we are working hard to live
up to that reputation again
in 2018 - to make it 178. And
if I could ask for your help
in one way, bring somebody
to the Show that has never
been before, or not for a long
time, and introduce them to
a truly wonderful Show full of
surprise and delight.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 13ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW UPDATE
MUSIC FOR
ALL TASTES
From pop to pipes – our
entertainment programme
has something for everyone.
Headlining, Stevie McCrorie,
winner of The Voice 2015, will
take to the stage on Saturday
afternoon. The National Youth
Choir of Scotland Edinburgh
Choir will also perform for the
first time this year and Scotland’s
Newest Independent Opera
Company, Opera Bohemia, will
perform Opera highlights.
Back by popular demand is
FOOD INSPIRATION the Farmers & Farmers’ Wives
Choir, who have proved to be
What an incredible line up of chefs for Scotland’s Larder Live! a massive crowd pleaser at the
Royal Highland Show since their
Tom Lewis, Mhor, winner of Regional Ambassador for the Central, first performance in 2014.
Fife and Tayside region 2017 Scotland’s schools and young
people will be out in force –
Neil Forbes, Café St Honoré. Chef of the Year at the Catering in West Lothian Schools Pipe
Scotland Excellence Awards 2014 & Scotland's first Soil Association Band, James Gillespies School,
Organic Restaurant Award. St Aidens High Band, City of
Edinburgh Music School and
Graeme Pallister, 63 Tay Street. CiS Chef of the Year Award 2013 Queen Victoria School. Visitors
can look forward to enjoying the
Contini Restaurante musical performances of Irish
singer Marty Mone and the ever-
Paul Newman, Errichel House and Cottages, Thyme at Errichel popular Artie Trezise.
Restaurant, Aberfeldy, winner of Food & Drink Awards 2018
Getting the feet tapping will be
David Haetzman, Chef Proprietor, Firebrick Brasserie, Lauder, the Duncan Black Ceilidh Band
winner, Restaurant Newcomer of the Year Catering in Scotland (2017 Scottish Ceilidh Band of the
Excellence Awards 2017 Year) as well as the Royal British
Legion Band and the Uddingston
Iain Campbell, 7th generation Master Baker, Campbell’s Bakery, & Strathclyde Pipe Band.
with Ark of Taste Selkirk Bannock
Cringletie House - a hilarious double act!
Chris Rowley, Ballintaggart Farm, Thistle Award Most Hospitable
B&B 2017
Andrew Whitley, Bread Matters & co-founder of Scotland The Bread
AliBob @ Cairn O'Mohr, Errol
Morven Hastie, Wishingwell Farmhouse, Drymen
Wendy Barrie, Founder & Director award-winning Scottish Food
Guide & Scottish Cheese Trail
14 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW UPDATE
IMPACT AND A The Show’s 2017 Visitor’s Survey
found that 94% commented on
We have also teamed up with
Spire Edinburgh Hospitals for
GREAT DAY OUT the Show’s ‘great atmosphere’ – the 2018 Show, which will see
and we look forward to creating the Grand Prix change its name
A recent report commissioned more of the same this year! to Spire Edinburgh Hospitals
by the Royal Highland and Grand Prix. Taking place on
Agricultural Society of Scotland International Visitors Saturday 23 June, the event is
(RHASS) has illustrated the the one of the true highlights
significant economic impact The Ayrshire Cattle Society
will be hosting 40 visitors for of the Show and is the ultimate
of the Royal Highland Show on test for horse and rider in
the Scottish economy, which is a European Red Dairy Breeds
Conference in June and the technical skills, and incredible
calculated to be £54 million. entertainment for all.
Royal Highland Show is on their
The 2017 Show attracted over busy itinerary. We look forward It is truly inspiring to witness
1,000 trade exhibitors and to welcoming them to the Show. the skill and dedication that
we continue to see increasing the competitors bring to the
interest from exhibitors and The ultimate Scottish
competition. We continue
competitors across the UK and event for horses and riders to invest in the Showground
abroad who now recognise this and, in particular, the show
The Royal Highland Show hosts
to be an international event with jumping facilities. The
the largest equestrian event
genuine business opportunities. Olympic standard all-weather
in Scotland and the North
Almost 40% of the exhibitors are jumping ring, has proved a
of England and continues to
from outside Scotland. great success and assures
strengthen its commitment to
The event welcomed a record Scottish show jumping with a competitors of a perfect
190,000 visitors in 2017 making 25% increase in prize money jumping surface.
it Scotland’s biggest outdoor for the winner of the Grand
event celebrating the best of Prix, up to £7,500 from £6,000
farming, food and rural life. awarded in 2017.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 15ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW UPDATE
1918 PEACE & RECONSTRUCTION MEMBERS’
This year’s Show will recognise the generous support of the AREA UPDATE
Scottish farming community to the region of Flanders in Belgium,
following the end of the First World War. Visit the Countryside The members’ area at the Royal
Cottage Exhibition Area to look at the unique map of the Flanders Highland Show is always a
area showing the distribution of livestock and other support offered popular spot and we know it is
to the Belgian Government to help rebuild its agriculture, after the valued by members as a place
devastation of the War. to gather, socialise, eat and
drink and relax.
All farms in Scotland which had provided such support were awarded
a certificate, provided by the Belgian Government of the time. The We are committed to providing
issuing of these certificates was administered by the Royal Highland this facility for members – and,
and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Maybe your farm was one of as many of you know, have
those farms? been working hard to ensure
this is available not only for this
year’s Show, but also for future
DIRECTORS’ RECEPTION ........... generations.
For this reason, the Board
All former Directors of RHASS are invited to join us for a has decided to invest in a new
gathering in the Board Room in Ingliston House at 4.30pm modern, events facility for year-
on Thursday 21 June 2018. round use that will meet the
needs of members throughout
the Shows of the future.
PRESIDENTIAL AREA – LOTHIANS We are in the process of
applying for planning, and
In the last issue of Society, we introduced the 2018 Presidential timescales are subject to
area, and the team have been busy preparing for this year’s statutory consents, however we
Show. Jobfarm, the Presidential Initiative for 2018, has an exciting will keep members updated on
development. From interviewing and filming young people already progress. Further details will be
employed in the sector, it emerged that work experience is the available online later in the year
biggest influence on the decision to work in agriculture. Hence and at the Show.
Jobfarm is developing a unique directory of farmers and related
employers in the Lothians who are offering work experience to In the meantime, we hope you
anyone over 16 years old for up to two weeks. Jobfarm is grateful enjoy the temporary facility that
for the enthusiasm and participation of employers who have made will be available for your use at
this unique concept possible. Jobfarm is also making a film collage this year’s Show.
of young people talking about their work as well as a website with
information about jobs and careers in agricultural industries, all
supported by a social media campaign. Jobfarm is scheduled to
go live at the end of April and its tent at the Show will have career
information and advisers on hand.
16 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018ANNUAL REVIEW 2017
4-PAGE SUMMARY PULL-OUT
The purpose of RHASS is to To download the complete
support and encourage Annual Review 2017 in PDF
the best of agriculture, format, find the link on
communicate and bring our website homepage:
to life its value, as well
www.rhass.org.uk
as developing a great
appreciation of the impact
of agriculture on everyday
life. We achieve this through
our work with our members
and stakeholders.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 17RECOMMITTED TO THE FUTURE
Building on last year’s work, significant infrastructure investment
continued in both the Showground and the Royal Highland Centre.
The aim of this investment is to create enabling finance, ensuring
RHASS remains a sustainable organisation capable of delivering
its charitable aims over many years to come.
CREATING A SUSTAINABLE CHARITY
22-25 JUNE
INCOME FROM RHASS INCOME FROM THE INCOME FROM ROYAL
LAND ASSETS, MEMBERSHIP THE ROYAL HIGHLAND HIGHLAND CENTRE
AND INVESTMENTS. SHOW IN 2017. LTD EVENTS.
£1.98M £4.45M £1.6M
TOTAL INCOME: £8.03M
CHARITABLE INVESTED REINVESTED INVESTED IN
REMIT IN THE IN THE ROYAL EDUCATION
INVESTMENT IN OUR SHOWGROUND HIGHLAND SHOW AND GRANTS
CORE FUNCTIONS
MAKING SURE INNOVATION AND FUNDS RHET TO
OF PROMOTING
OUR GREATEST IMPROVEMENTS DELIVER LEARNING
FOOD, FARMING
ASSET REMAINS TO ENSURE THE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
AND RURAL LIFE.
A SAFE AND EVENT REMAINS A AND GRANTS FOR
WELCOMING PLACE SHOWCASE FOR WORTHWHILE
FOR VISITORS. SCOTLAND. PROJECTS.
TOTAL EXPENDITURE: £8.27M
18 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018GRANTS AWARDED
The Society’s investments are managed to
ensure there are sufficient funds to support
innovation and excellence. During the 2016-
17 year, awards of £193,125 were awarded. A
breakdown is outlined below. An additional
£166,137 in prize money was presented at the
Royal Highland Show.
EDUCATION
AWARDED TO £ / 2017 £ / 2016
Royal Highland 150,656* 241,113
Education Trust
SHOW SPONSORSHIP
* This reduction is a result of a number of one-off payments in 2016
Royal Highland Education 5,000 7,290
As a grant making institution, RHASS must seek Trust – Countryside Initiatives
to ensure that it has the necessary funding.
LANTRA 2,042 500
A key source of income is generated by the
Royal Highland Show. In 2017, we raised a record Nuffield Scholarship - 6,000
£455,000 in sponsorship in addition to Gift in
Kind support estimated at £65.000. Chairman’s Award - 1,000
The Show has built a hugely successful Glasgow and Edinburgh 6,000 -
sponsorship programme, with many Veterinary Schools
companies and individuals continuing to
Academic Achievement 1,329 2,278
sponsor the event and its varied programme
Medals
for a great number of years. From livestock
to show jumping, from the Clydesdales to the SCIENCE
Cookery Theatre, the RHET Discovery Zone
and much more, the Show offers sponsors an AWARDED TO £ / 2017 £ / 2016
unrivalled opportunity to showcase their brand
and provides a platform on which to promote Moredun - 1,000
their business, build customer loyalty and
network with new clients over four days of the
CULTURE & CITIZENSHIP
best of Scotland’s food, farming and rural life. AWARDED TO £ / 2017 £ / 2016
RSABI 14,000 15,000
Total sponsorship £455,000 Grant to attend RASC 2,538 -
Next Generation Mission
in South Africa
Gift in kind support £65,000 (Estimated)
Bursary to attend - 2,000
Commonwealth Agricultural
Conference, Singapore
55.3% returning for at least a 3rd year
Oxford Farming Conference 885 -
More than 10% of 2017 sponsors Scottish Farriery Teams 2,000 2,600
have supported for over 5 years Long Service Certificates 6,325 4,113
and Ploughing Medals
Scottish Shearing 1,100 8,000
1 in 10 sponsors have supported for Circuit Committee
over 5 years, RBS has been a partner Miscellaneous 1,250 1,200
of the RHS for 37 years (since 1981) TOTAL 193,125 292,094
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 192017 FACTS & FIGURES
190,028 +6%
RECORD NUMBERS OF + 6% TICKETS ON LAST
VISITORS FOR THE FOURTH YEAR WITH 56% BOUGHT
YEAR RUNNING IN ADVANCE
28,982 £8M
OVER 28,982 CHILDREN £8M INVESTED IN
ATTENDED FOR FREE SHOPPING AT THE EVENT
2,000 1,100 408
SHEEP CATTLE HEAVY HORSES
20 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018NETREGS
PROTECTING OUR WATERS
I
t can be a challenge to keep up to date with Riverbank protection
all the legislation regards land management, A welcome change has been made to using trees,
so RHASS has spoken to Gillian Bruce, parts of trees or stones as riverbank protection - this
NetRegs manager, SEPA to find out about is now carried out under the conditions of GBR 25 and
recent changes. does not necessarily require prior permission from the
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
Landowners take deep pride in and put huge
amounts of hard work into, the management of their This list gives a brief indication of the range and
land, understanding its role in the landscape, the detail in the legislation which you need to be
environment and the sustainability of the land for aware of. Additional consent may be required from
future generations. However, it is important to ensure other authorities, such as planning permission or
that your management practices are in line with permission associated with conservation areas or
current environmental legislation. There have been protected species.
a number of recent amendments affecting General
What must be remembered is that there are always
Binding Rules that land owners need to know.
practical and environmentally sustainable solutions
Oil storage when it comes to managing your land effectively and
efficiently. There’s a lot of help and support available
The storage of oil is now covered by GBRs 26, 27 and and I urge landowners to utilise it.
28. If the container is less than 200 litres in capacity,
it must be a strong container that won't leak or Ensure that your business is compliant with
burst. Larger oil storage tanks must have secondary environmental regulations and keep up to date
containment, either in the form of integral bunding, with changes in legislation with NetRegs. NetRegs
or a constructed bund. Fittings and pipework must is a partnership between the Northern Ireland
be located and operated correctly. Environment Agency (NIEA) in Northern Ireland and
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in
Application of pesticides Scotland, providing free environmental guidance to
New rules have been introduced with regards to the SMEs across the country.
application of herbicides for the control of invasive
non-native plant species on land near watercourses. For more information, please visit:
New GBR 23 allows the treatment of these plants on www.netregs.org.uk
land without the need for a licence or registration.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 21Say Cheese!
By Wendy Barrie
T
here is evidence of cheese
production in Northern Europe
from 8,000 years ago! 19th
Century Scotland would have had
hundreds of farmhouse cheeses - rural
octogenarians will recall their granny
making cheese! Cheese-making had
been in terminal decline until a few
determined descendants, plus new
kids on the block, kick-started artisan
cheese-making again. As a lover of
farmhouse cheese, founding the
Scottish Cheese Trail was inevitable!
No two cheeses are ever the same
and when you start exploring it is a
fascinating subject.
22 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018Scotland has
wonderful cheeses
from the stormy Isle
of Lewis to the lush
pastures of Dumfries
and Galloway
Recent press has highlighted the interest in our Lanarkshire is home to Errington and Ayrshire
cheeses as far afield as France and USA and and Arran have fertile pastures perfect for
although cheesemakers’ skills are referred to, Ayrshire cows. More enthusiasts are starting
they rarely mention the breed and feed used, out on the cheesy road and if you fancy a go,
fundamental to cheese production. Cheese West Highland Dairy runs excellent courses for
depends on a number of variables affecting aspiring professionals and happy amateurs!
milk quality: the animal - sheep/goat/cow; the
Yes our cheeses can travel the world but it
breed - Jersey/Friesian/Ayrshire; the terroir - hill
is important to differentiate why a particular
grazing/valleys/meadows, and the feed – grass/
cheese is better or different – our Scottish soil
grain/silage. Next, the skills of the cheesemaker:
and the breeds we use, how we feed them - all
handling milk; creating curds; forming cheeses
affect the taste and quality and give us our
and maturing them. Cheese-making is no easy
unique place on the world stage.
gig – you need to be fit, dedicated, patient and
fastidious – but the end results can be amazing! At Scotland’s Larder Live! Cookery Theatre there
will be an inspiring team of chefs on stage who
Both RHASS Director John Sinclair of Craigie’s
support our Nation’s cheese including…Neil
and I have Judged the World Cheese Awards
Forbes, Tom Lewis, David Haetzman, Graeme
and gained fascinating insights on how to
Pallister, Paul Newman, Chris Rowley, Ian
evaluate cheese: scents of silage v. hay; spiced
Campbell, AliBob, Wendy Barrie and many more!
varieties; maturity and moisture content…. A
heady evaluation of aromas and flavours!
Scotland has wonderful cheeses from the Scotland’s foodie, Wendy Barrie www.
stormy Isle of Lewis to the lush pastures of wendybarrie.co.uk is a highly respected
Dumfries and Galloway. On Mull, the cows need campaigner for local sustainable food,
to be hardy and their diet is supplemented popular cookery show presenter and
with local distillery draff, giving a dance to their food writer. Founder & Director of award-
step and a zing to their cheese! The clover winning www.scottishfoodguide.scot &
rich pastures of the Moray Firth are home to www.scottishcheesetrail.com
Connage, and Royal Deeside to Cambus O’ Wendy is Leader in Scotland for Slow
May. St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company Food Ark of Taste & Slow Food Chef
is Fife’s cheesemaker, and Yester’s creamy Alliance Member.
range puts East Lothian on the cheese map.
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 23Scottish Farms
T
he ‘face’ of the 2018 Lanarkshire. Whelphill has been in the Overall Sheep Champion
Royal Highland Show the family for 3 generations and is at Lesmahagow Show last year
is the Blackface Sheep. a 3,500-acre hill farm supporting with Emily and really feel she
We visit the farm where the 1,100 Blackface ewes. Hartside, demonstrates the best of the
which is around 10 miles away, breed. We had fierce competition
champion blackface was bred
was purchased 30 years ago at the Highland, but she managed
to talk to the family about the and is around 2,000 acres. It is to win the breed title.
importance of the breed to a beef and sh,eep unit, with 680
Scottish agriculture. “The Blackface breed is all about
Blackface ewes, 350 Blackface x
character. A well-balanced animal
As we approach the Show in June, Bluefaced Leicesters, 50 pure-
with plenty of size, a good body
you will notice images of Emily bred Texel ewes and a 90-head
and displaying a lot of character
the Blackface Sheep featuring on Limousin cross beef suckler herd.
in the head. It is bred to survive
billboards, trams and even TV. Employees, Gordon McDougal
the brutality that the Scottish
This is an iconic breed to Scotland, and Ross Henderson work with
Highlands can throw at it, so its
suited to his often-challenging Malcolm to manage the stock.
needs to have the qualities and
landscape, and a favourite of “We’ve always shown the sheep temperament to get through the
many Scottish farmers. at local shows, but around 5 harshest environments. Much of
One particular member of RHASS years ago I decided to tackle the the Scottish landscape has been
who is a Blackface enthusiast and Highland,” says Malcolm. “I like shaped by native breeds, such as
the owner of the animal being to challenge myself and it really the Blackface sheep, which have
used in the Royal Highland Show is the shop window within our grazed the geography of Scotland
promotion is Malcolm Coubrough. industry. I see it as a premium for centuries. We owe a lot to
event to promote our breed, and these breeds for the beauty that
Malcolm farms with his father at felt our flock now had the quality we see. They have also provided
Hartside Farm, near Biggar and to compete at the Show. We won an income for generations of
Whelphill Farm, Crawford, both in
24 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018The Blackface breed is all about character. A well-
balanced animal with plenty of size, a good body
and displaying a lot of character in the head.
farmers who have relied on the “As hill farmers we don’t have future of our farm. We improved
hardiness of these breeds to scope to increase numbers, it’s nutrition by getting the mineral
generate a living – which has been a very low input system and our balance correct and that has
vital for the economy of rural stocking rates are set by nature. evident in the improved fertility
Scotland. This applies to our farms We need to look at ways to we have seen. By scanning we
– where nature dictates what you improve our product for market, can manage lambing better, the
can farm - and it is down to us to and breeding plays an important singles stay on the hill and have
make that work for our business. role in that. access to energy buckets and the
ewes carrying twins are brought
“We have focussed on genetics and “It also gives us an opportunity
down from the hill in February
have used AI for almost 10 years. to sell genetics. As we have
and fed a 18% protein ewe roll
It allows you to get more sheep in improved the characteristics
for additional nutrition. This
lamb to better first choice rams of our Blackies, we have seen
means they are in much better
and breed a flock that will thrive on demand increase. We mainly sell
condition to lamb and produce
our hills. We joined a syndicate last at Lanark, Stirling and Dalmally
milk for the lambs.
year with Ramseys at Milnmark, and sold 30 tups last year with a
and Findlays at Blackcraig to top price of £10,000. “It’s great to see the flock
buy a tup at Lanark, which was improve, and the hard work pay
“For the sale and the shows,
attracting huge interest. The ram, off and it’s a real bonus, for my
its important we have the
from the Easter Harprew flock, is family and our staff, to win at
flock in good condition and I
full of character with size and has the Shows. This year, we hope
feel we have made significant
a real presence about him. He to continue our success. My wife
improvements over the years.
cost us £55,000 but a worthwhile Audrey, daughter, Emily (11) and
With the attention to breeding
investment to improve the flock. son Charlie (9) will all be back
we now have a stronger flock
We purchased him last October, at Ingliston in June to attempt a
that is more productive, which
and his first lambs are due in April. consecutive win.”
is absolutely necessary for the
RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018 | 25THE ROYAL HIGHLAND EDUCATION TRUST
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
Katrina Barclay, RHET Manager and thrive, we must educate our children and
B
showcase the opportunities available to them.
ack in March of this year, we launched
our first Corporate Supporters’ WHY ARE WE ASKING YOU NOW?
Scheme for RHET. Many individuals RHASS has provided significant financial support to
and companies have already supported us RHET for the last 20 years to support core activities
in the 20 years since RHET was established and help ensure it is able to deliver its mission. While
to bring Scotland’s farming and countryside this support will continue, it is important that RHET
to our country’s children in the classroom. can build a stable and sustainable future with its
To those who have provided valuable time own resources, so that we can continue to support
the work of our Countryside Initiatives across
and financial support, thank you for your
Scotland. To do this, we are asking businesses and
generosity and your belief in what we do. organisations like yours to become the inaugural
The work of RHET is unique. There is no other supporters of this new membership scheme.
charitable organisation quite like it in the UK, with
twelve Countryside Initiatives (including RNCI in the WE ARE INVITING ORGANISATIONS
North East) offering FREE visits to working farms and TO PURCHASE CORPORATE
rural businesses for primary and secondary school SUBSCRIPTIONS AT A COST OF £1,000
pupils, as well as classroom visits, across the length
and breadth of Scotland. We are the envy of many Every gift of £1,000 will enable:
people we meet from Europe and beyond at farming • over 120 young people to visit a farm,
conferences and events, and the results speak for • 300 pupils to receive a classroom talk
themselves; over 6,000 children have joined a Food
• and contribute to the training of over 30 teachers
and Farming visit in 2017 with a further 12,000
visiting a working farm. Over 1,500 schools have You may join the Corporate Supporter Scheme
hosted a classroom visit by a local farmer and over from 1 March online by making a payment of
700 teachers have attended our training sessions. £1,000 to RHET (Royal Bank of Scotland, Sort Code
In 2017, we hosted 7,000 children during the Royal : 83-28-37 Account number: 00141330) Direct debit
Highland Show. In all of this we pay tribute to our is also available.
volunteers who give time valued at £1.2m to the
Trust each year and without whose tireless support IN RETURN FOR YOUR SUPPORT, YOU
we could not deliver this excellent work. WILL RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING:
Demand for our services have never been so • Acknowledgement of your company or business
high. Unfortunately, we cannot respond to every as a Corporate Supporter on the RHET website
approach from schools asking us to host a visit for • Name acknowledgement on the Supporter Wall
their pupils, many of whom may never have seen at the Royal Highland Show
a newborn lamb or climbed up on a tractor. Some • Support for your organisation on social media
don’t know where their food comes from or how @theRHET (+30,000 followers)
it is grown. We are determined to do all we can
• Annual/bi-annual RHET newsletter
to change this for every child in Scotland – but we
need your help to do it. RHET relies on public and private sector support to
deliver unique learning opportunities to Scotland’s
You may be one of those lucky folk who grew up
young people. In this, the Year of Young People,
on the land or visited a farm when young, but for
I warmly invite you to become a RHET Corporate
many children this is unknown. RHET has provided
Supporter and help us to achieve our aims.
the opportunity for Scotland’s youngsters to learn
about their farming heritage for almost 20 years.
Today, our work has never been more important If you would like to know more about the
as we face challenges to health and well-being, to valuable opportunities RHET can offer
say nothing of the challenges facing our farming your organisation for partnership and
industry as it looks to the future. RHET is engaging stakeholder engagement, please contact
with the next generation of food consumers and
Katrina Barclay, RHET Manager
family cooks as well as the next generation of the
rural industry workforce, from farming to food CALL: 0131 335 6227
and business. If these industries are to survive
26 | RHASS • SOCIETY MAGAZINE • SPRING 2018You can also read
