With Scotland’s World Cup campaign getting off to a winning start and football excitement building across the country, the farming community got into the spirit of the game by raising over £14,500 for agricultural charity RSABI at its first ever Farmer Football Fundraiser.
Held at McDiarmid Park in Perth, the home of St Johnstone FC, the seven-a-side tournament brought together teams from across Scottish agriculture for a day of friendly competition, fundraising and community spirit.
The event attracted players and supporters from across the sector, with familiar faces from BBC’s This Farming Life taking to the pitch alongside well-known names from farming businesses and rural organisations. Among those involved were Callum Lindsay, Ally and Noah Williamson, Rob Smith and Adam Johnstone, alongside Ben Imrie and Ewan Irvine. They were joined by farmer comedian and RSABI #KeepTalking ambassador Jim Smith, YouTube star Crawford Niven and Scottish Farmer’s Glen Barclay.
A total of 12 teams took part in the competition, representing farms, agricultural businesses and rural organisations from across Scotland.
Generously supported by programme sponsors Hamilton Ross, ball sponsors Gillespie Macandrew and referee sponsors Drysdale Trailers, the tournament proved a huge success both on and off the pitch, with family and friends cheering from the sidelines throughout the day.
After a closely fought day of matches, the Friday Night Football Crew emerged victorious, finishing ahead of runners-up Kirrie Thistle FC and third-placed North East United.
Nathan of the Friday Night Football Crew was named Player of the Tournament, with the award selected and presented by Olympic curler Glen Muirhead.
Pauline Macmillan, Head of Fundraising at RSABI, said: “The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic. With football firmly in the spotlight ahead of Scotland’s first game in the World Cup, there was a real buzz around the event from start to finish.
“We’re delighted to have raised more than £14,500 through the tournament, and it was brilliant to see so many people from across the agricultural community coming together and getting off farm to enjoy some friendly competition while supporting the work we do at RSABI.
“The event was about much more than football. It was an opportunity for people to connect, have fun and support wellbeing across the farming community, while raising awareness of the support we offer and vital funds that will help us continue that work throughout Scottish agriculture.”
RSABI extended its thanks to everyone who helped make the day a success, including players, sponsors, spectators and volunteers.
Special thanks were paid to the event commentator, pitch managers, first aid team and sweepstake ticket sellers, as well as Glen Muirhead for selecting the Player of the Tournament and Personal Trainer Steve Bonthrone for leading the pre-match warm-up.
Funds raised from the tournament will support RSABI’s ongoing work providing practical, emotional and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture through its free and confidential support services.
RSABI’s support services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by calling 0808 1234 555 or through a webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.