Holstein Open Day raises £15,000 for RSABI

Chair of RSABI David Leggat expressed heartfelt thanks to the Laird Family and Holstein Scotland South during a visit to Blyth Farm, West Linton.

Alister and Colin Laird, along with family, presented Mr Leggat with a cheque for £15,000 which was raised for the agricultural charity during the Holstein Scotland South Open Day at the Laird family’s pedigree Blythbridge base earlier this year.

The event, held on 12 May, was a chance for attendees to view the family’s new state-of-the-art cow barn and milking system, as well as take part in a stockjudging competition and visit 20 trade stands. Also, donations were collected on the day for RSABI, the charity supporting people in Scottish agriculture, with the grand sum of £15,000 raised in total by the event.

Colin Laird said: “Our family was delighted to welcome so many people to Blythbridge earlier this year for the Holstein Scotland South Open Day, for what was a fantastic event. Our thanks go to everyone who contributed and donated on the day to help raise funds for RSABI.

“Also, on behalf of our family we are proud to be able to hand over these funds. I was extremely humbled when approaching the companies for sponsorship. There was never any hesitation from them to be involved when explaining the charity we were raising funds for, reiterating to me the fact that we were dealing with the best in the business and we cannot thank them enough.”

David Yates, Chairman of Holstein Scotland South said:

“Our club open day at Blyth was a great day. The Laird family have a tremendous set up and are a real credit to our breed.

“The money raised was outstanding and we are delighted to be able to support such a great charity.”

Mr Leggat expressed his heartfelt thanks to all involved in the event and everyone who contributed to fundraising efforts.

He said: “Our gratitude goes to all at Holstein Scotland South and the Laird Family for raising such a fantastic sum for RSABI at their Blyth Farm Open Day. By all accounts the event was a great success. As well as raising funds, the event was also a wonderful opportunity for us to meet people and share more about the services we provide.

“Having the support from the agricultural community and groups such as Holstein Scotland South and the Laird Family is so important to us at RSABI, and we’re very grateful for their continued support.

“Funds raised at the open day will help us to provide vital services to people across the Scottish agricultural industry, including providing financial assistance through our Help for Heating support and counselling grants.

“The industry is facing many challenges, and there is a lot of worry out there about the increased cost of living. I’d encourage anyone who is finding things difficult, or who is concerned, to get in touch with RSABI.

“Our team is friendly and professional, and support is confidential. Please don’t hesitate. We’re here to help.”