A farming charity has received a cheque for nearly £23,000 following a gruelling Hike and Bike Challenge undertaken by NFU Cymru.
The two day challenge consisted of five different stages. A core team of participants also did the full challenge - this included hiking the three Welsh peaks; Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen y Fan, and cycling between each one.
After the challenge, the farming union presented the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) with a total sum of £22,864.
The team was made up of NFU Cymru staff, officeholders, members and workers from the farming industry.
On presenting the cheque, NFU Cymru Director, John Mercer said: “The challenge was one of the hardest and most challenging we have ever undertaken but one that we knew was in aid of a great cause.
“We work very closely with RABI who are our chosen charity this year, therefore we are well aware of the fantastic work they carry out for farming families in need.”
Mr Mercer added: “It gives me great pleasure on behalf of all those who took part and all those who kindly donated, to hand this cheque over to RABI, knowing that every penny will be used to support farming families right across Wales.
“We would urge anyone who is struggling emotionally or financially to contact RABI to see how they can offer support,” he said.
Farming hardship
RABI is a welfare charity which aims to change farmers' lives for the better. It offers financial support to farming people in hardship of all ages.
To qualify for long-term financial support, applicants must normally be 65 or over and have worked in farming for at least 10 years. Dependants can also qualify for assistance.
The charity provides short-term and long-term support to people and many become ‘full beneficiaries’ of the charity, receiving ongoing regular payments.
RABI Chairman, Malcolm Thomas said of NFU Cymru's donation: “It’s one of the largest donations we’ve ever received from Wales and we’re grateful to receive such a generous cheque.
“The money raised through this magnificent challenge will help so many Welsh farming families. We are very fortunate to have a close working relationship with NFU Cymru and have been overwhelmed by the support shown towards our work.”
Further information regarding the work that RABI does is available on its website or by calling 01865 724931.
