A CHARITY that helps people in the farming community deal with hardship and distress has received a cash boost from Worcestershire farmers.

County farmers have raised £11,250 for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) and a cheque was handed over at a meeting near Worcester on Tuesday night (November 25).

The funds were raised at a host of events throughout the year including clay shoots, ploughing contests and a dinner.

Kate Jones, RABI regional officer, received the cheque from farmer Andrew Goodman at the event.

She said to the county farmers: “We are here to make a difference but without your help and support we couldn’t help anyone - you always make a tremendous effort.

“On behalf of RABI and the beneficiaries I would like to thank you all for the generous donation, those who held events and those who supported them as it is much appreciated.”

Around 50 farmers attended the meeting and heard that an impressive £3,500 had also been raised by agricultural merchant Steve Morris, of Kidderminster, when he completed his ninth Great North Run earlier this year.

Mrs Jones added the charity had worked on 30 cases in Worcestershire during the year and every penny raised went to help those in the county.

RABI is the national farming charity for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The charity was founded in 1860 and has an unbroken history of supporting members of the farming community suffering need, hardship or distress.

They give financial provision, help with daily living and offer support for those in special situations.