Scots hold special thanksgiving service for farmers

© Robert Perry

Bringing the countryside into the heart of Edinburgh city centre, a combine harvester stole the limelight at a harvest service on Sunday October 1 at the historic St Giles’ Cathedral.

The show of agricultural equipment, on the famed Royal Mile, was organised by the Royal Highland & Agriculture Society of Scotland (RHASS) and put a spotlight on local farmers and Scottish food production, and sparked conversations around food waste. 

The harvest thanksgiving service featured a display of “wonky” seasonal fruits and vegetables, donated by local farmers from East and West Lothian, with all produce going to charities including the Salvation Army, Cyrenians and Social Bite. 

See also: Inverness farmer takes winning Harvest Photo Comp shot

RHASS chairman Jim Warnock commented that the service was an opportunity to show appreciation for “those who put food on our tables”.

He said: “Our first harvest thanksgiving celebration will celebrate the resilience and tireless efforts of Scotland’s farming community, all while supporting great charities.

© Robert Perry

“RHASS champions rural Scotland and all those who work in it, and at this time of year they are under huge pressure.”

The service was led by Rev Sigrid Marten, associate minister of St Giles’ Cathedral. She said it highlighted “the vital role that Scottish farmers play in providing great quality food”.

She added: “Bringing farming equipment to the Royal Mile is one way to remind us of our dependence on those who work hard to produce our food.”