North-east farmers are staging a special charity event next month in memory of the Press and Journal’s late farming editor Joe Watson.
NFU Scotland’s Huntly-Insch branch is holding a charity stockjudging and social event on Friday June 6, in recognition of Joe, who died suddenly in March at the age of 43.
The event will take place from 7pm at Auchincrieve Farm, Rothiemay – courtesy of host farmers Charlie and Gillian McCombie – and Joe’s mother Mirren and his brothers Fraser and Murdo are planning to attend.
A special trophy in Joe’s name will be awarded to the overall winner of the stockjudging competition.
Funds raised from the events will be donated to two charities – The Sandpiper Trust, which was dear to Joe’s heart providing medical equipment in remote and rural areas, and the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance.
“Joe was passionate about the farming industry, particularly the north-east, and he was never afraid to tackle controversial issues and ask awkward questions to get to the bottom of matters,” said NFU Scotland Huntly-Insch branch chairman John Gordon from Wellheads, Huntly.
“By sharing a night in celebration of Joe’s life and work with his family, we hope this event goes some way to recognising the respect and high regard that the farming community had for Joe.”
For more information about the event contact NFU Scotland north-east regional manager Lorna Paterson on 07786860453 or local group secretary Richard Thompson on 01542 882884.