Video: Agri Aid choir performs Friends anthem at Cereals
A choir made up of farming influencers and schoolchildren struck a chord at Cereals, raising awareness of mental health challenges in agriculture and funds for the Farming Community Network (FCN).
The Agri Aid choir took to the Farmers Weekly stage at the arable event at Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm on Wednesday 10 June, performing a specially adapted version of the Friends theme song, “I’ll Be There For You”, featuring farming-themed lyrics.
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The initiative was created by Lincolnshire farmers Michael Gallacher, owner of GCS Machinery, and Rick Kellett of farm and forestry contractors Caddis.
They were joined by 25 students from Bredon School near Tewkesbury, which specialises in providing special educational needs support through practical, hands-on learning, including for young people from farming families with dyslexia.
Funds raised through the performance will go to FCN, a charity that provides support and guidance to farmers and farming families across England and Wales.
Addressing the audience ahead of the performance, Mr Gallacher spoke candidly about his own mental health breakdown – and how support from friends helped him recover.
“All I wanted to do was an immediate way out. Looking back, I can see that would have been the wrong choice,” he said.
“I was very lucky that friends realised the mess I was in and supported me to get back on track. Without those friends, I wouldn’t be talking to you now.”
Mr Gallacher explained that the lyrics of the Friends theme tune resonated deeply with him during his darkest moments and inspired the idea for the choir.
“It’s OK not to be OK,” he said. “If you’re in a dark place or having a bad time, reach out, speak to people and get some help.”
Mr Kellett said the project had brought together members of the farming community to promote wellbeing and encourage people to seek support when needed.
Support network
Among the performers was South Yorkshire beef and arable farmer and TikTok creator Joe Seels, who said taking part had been both enjoyable and rewarding.
“Sometimes being sat in a tractor all day can be quite isolating in farming, so having that camaraderie of doing things like a choir really helps,” he said.
FCN regional manager Mark Newman said the charity exists to listen to and support those facing difficulties.
“We’re here to support you, listen, connect and support you along your journey,” he added.
FCN’s helpline is open every day from 7am to 11pm on 03000 111 999, while additional information and support resources are available at fcn.org.uk.
