Archive Article: 2001/08/17
Farmers weekly wants to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated money and given help and support to those in need after the foot-and-mouth outbreak.
Money contributed to the emergency funds is throwing a lifeline to many families. Every penny really does make a difference. People have also rallied round to support farmers, with acts of kindness offers of support and resources.
People involved with Allendale Fair, which was cancelled this year due to foot-and-mouth, raised £1000 for the Royal Agricultural Ben-evolent Institution holding pub karoake nights. Commit-tee member of the Fair, Margaret Stonehouse, says there were two aims – to generate trade for village pubs hit by F&M and to raise cash for charity. As for the standard of the singing? "Mixed!"
Myerscough College students raised £1000 for the Arthur Rank Centre Addington Fund with rag week events. Money-raising activities included sales of rag mags and a fancy-dress gate collection, with money also given to local charities. Many of those at the Lancashire College have been directly and indirectly affected by foot-and-mouth, says principal John Moveley. "The students wanted to do something to help."
Brian Bostock, Roger Beesley and Jimmy Smith raised £2260 for the ARC Addington Fund holding a lunch party at Yardley Hastings, Northants. The event was well-supported, particularly by those involved in the ancillary industries, says retired farm manager Brian. "Everyone went home with a smile on their face, except those who had had too much to drink and did not want to leave the bar."
Richard and Rachel Griffin of Upper Wardington, Banbury, organised a Plough-mans Supper and auction at their local village hall, raising £3302 for the RABI and Farm Crisis Network.
Have you or someone you know put your hand in your pocket or acted in response to the current crisis? If so, let us know. Call 0208-652 4928 or e-mail tim.relf@rbi.co.uk