Around 200 farmers, crofters and churchgoers from across the Highlands attended this year’s joint harvest thanksgiving service in Dingwall following a partnership approach between the local church community and Dingwall & Highland Marts Ltd.
Rev Calum Iain Macleod, minister of Ferintosh and Resolis Free Church, reached out to Dingwall Mart in 2024 to see how the church community could better support farmers and crofters.
This year’s service formed part of the Dingwall 800 programme of special events. It was held at Dingwall Free Church yesterday (Sunday 1st November) followed by a traybake buffet. A kid’s club and creche was provided for families attending. Any donations on the day went towards RSABI – a charity providing vital practical, emotional and financial support to everyone involved in the Scottish agricultural industry.
Calum Iain said: “This year we explored how we can find certainty in uncertain times. Providing pastoral support and encouragement for our hard-working farmers and crofters at a difficult time is important. I really appreciate the partnership approach with the mart and resident chaplain, Simon Jackson.”
Grant Macpherson, Managing Director, Dingwall & Highland Marts Ltd added: “We are delighted to partner with the local church community this year again. The encouragement provided through this annual harvest thanksgiving service is greatly appreciated.”
People attended the service from as far as Sleat to the west, Rogart to the north and Farr to the south.