United Auctions Huntly is to host its first Carols at the Marts event on Monday 19th December and is inviting the local agricultural community to come together and connect as part of RSABI’s #KeepTalking campaign.
The big message of this winter’s #KeepTalking campaign is to encourage people in agricultural communities in Scotland to reach out and connect with friends, neighbours, relatives and others who might be feeling isolated this winter.
The local farming community is invited to the event on Monday 19th December and enjoy an evening of carol singing and refreshments. Local keyboard player, Jan Guild, will be keeping singers in tune and tasty stovies, oatcakes and beetroot will be served, thanks to generous sponsorship from Colin and Morven Sievwright, Blackhills Farm, New Byth; Patrick Sleigh, West Fingask and Philip and Gill Sleigh at Netherton of Mountie (both Oldmeldrum).
As well as carolling, attendees will also have the chance to make their own Christmas decorations with Mental Wellbeing “Art of Farming” artists, Mary Bourne and Lynne Strachan. There will also be prizes for those wearing the best Christmas jumpers, sponsored by NFU mutual, Keith Agenvy.
This December a number of auction markets across Scotland are hosting Carols at the Marts this winter, including Castle Douglas, Ayr, Forfar and Dingwall.
“Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many,” said Lorna Paterson who is working with RSABI to organise the event.
“As well as the celebrations and parties, it can also be a stressful and often lonely time. We’re encouraging everyone to please bring family members and anyone along whom you think might enjoy a relaxing evening out at this very challenging time of year. This is an evening where we can all play a part in helping others support their mental health by simply coming together over a cuppa and a chat while enjoying some Christmas carols.”
Carol McLaren, Chief Executive, RSABI added: “Our message is for everyone to #KeepTalking as the nights become darker and longer and, in particular, to think about getting in touch with people of all ages in their communities who may be more vulnerable to loneliness and isolation this winter.
“This time of year is traditionally a tough time for farming folk, with mud and cold to contend with and fewer events and opportunities to catch up. And this year, with the additional pressure of cost-of-living worries and general uncertainty, we are particularly keen that people in the agricultural community feel as supported as possible.”
Carols in the Mart takes place on Monday 19th December from 6.00pm at United Auctions, Huntly, AB54 4QU. More information is available on the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk
RSABI’s freephone Helpline – 0808 1234 555 – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills.