Comedian Jim Smith tells farmers ‘keep talking’

COMEDIAN Jim Smith is backing this winter’s “Keep Talking” campaign for farmers and crofters.

Organised by the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI), the camaign encourages people to get together over the darker months.

“We can all get a bit down at this time of year and this is a fantastic initiative by RSABI to encourage people to reconnect,” said Smith.

“We are all busy but this initiative encourages us all to stop and take the time to think about others.

“Just having a decent blether and getting things off your chest can make a huge difference to how well you can cope with the pressures of life and work.

“Kindness is so important and just the smallest acts of kindness can make such a difference to the person on the receiving end.”

This year, the RSABI wants volunteers to help run “Carols at the Marts” at auction venues.

Ayr, Dingwall, and Forfar have held carol concerts at their marts in the past.

“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,” said Carol McLaren, chief executive at the RSABI.

“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.”

Neil Wilson, executive director of the Institute of Auctioneers & Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), added: “Scotland’s auction markets are very much the heartbeat of Scotland’s agricultural communities – as both hubs of commercial and social activity.

“This reputation has been built up over decades and so it is wonderful to see auctioneers behind the country getting behind this RSABI initiative.”

Read more stories on Scottish Field’s news pages.

Plus, don’t miss the December issue of Scottish Field magazine.