Strathspey Farmer Takes On 231-Mile East-To-West Cycle for RSABI

A Strathspey farmer is preparing to cycle 231 miles across Scotland this summer to raise funds for agricultural charity RSABI and the Royal Highland Educational Trust (RHET).

Malcolm Smith, who farms at Auchernack Farm near Grantown-on-Spey with his family and serves as Agricultural Adviser for the Cairngorms National Park, will set off from Buchan Ness Lighthouse in Peterhead on 2 July and finish three days later at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, the most westerly point on mainland Britain.

The challenge will see Malcolm travel from Scotland's east coast to west coast, covering around 95 miles on day one, 80 miles on day two and a final 60-mile stretch on day three.

The fundraising effort marks the final year of Auchernack Farm's involvement in the Strathspey Monitor Farm Programme and reflects the family's long-standing support of both charities.

Malcolm said: "At Auchernack Farm, we have been long-term supporters of both RSABI and RHET, and as we come to the end of our Monitor Farm journey, we wanted to do something memorable to mark the occasion.

"The route will certainly be a challenge, but it's for two causes that mean a great deal to us. Both organisations do tremendous work supporting rural communities and helping people better understand farming and agriculture.

"I've been training hard over the past few months, getting out on the bike most days, heading to the gym twice a week and building up the mileage gradually. Hopefully all the preparation pays off when I set off in July."

The Smith family has farmed at Auchernack since 1936. Today, Malcolm farms alongside his sons, Calum and Hamish, with the family running a 323-hectare livestock business focused on suckler beef production.

Pauline Macmillan, Head of Fundraising at RSABI, said: "We're incredibly grateful to Malcolm for taking on this fantastic challenge to help raise funds for RSABI. Cycling 231 miles across Scotland over three days is a huge undertaking and a real testament to his determination and generosity.

"Fundraising efforts like this make a real difference, helping us continue to provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture who may be facing difficult times.

"We'd encourage anyone who can to get behind Malcolm and support his fundraising efforts. We'll be following his progress closely and cheering him on every step of the way!”

Anyone wishing to support Malcolm's challenge and help raise funds for RSABI can donate through his fundraising page: givewheel.com/fundraising/16302/malcolms-cycle-from-east-to-west

Funds raised by Malcolm 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: rsabi.org.uk