Somerset young farmers take on 100-mile cycle for charity

Four members of Somerset Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) are set to embark on a 100-mile cycle trip through the county to raise money to help improve mental health among its rural communities.

Somerset county chairman Ben Goulding, Will Hooper from Polden Hills YFC, Charlotte Scott from Bridgwater YFC and Patrick Rich from Farrington Gurney YFC will begin their gruelling ride in Wellington on Saturday 4 September.

© Ben Goulding

See also: Where farmers in need can find charity help

The fundraiser was inspired by the tragic death of a Bridgwater YFC member who took her own life earlier this year.

The Somerset county federation wants to use the money raised to produce a mental health awareness video, to highlight the problems young people are facing and how they can get help.

The campaign has the support of Lloyds Bank, which will match the funds raised by the young farmers, and provide its own team to join the mammoth cycle through the countryside.

Mr Goulding told Farmers Weekly: “We’re working with the Somerset Mental Health in Agriculture Group and the money will be used for a new video and training package for our members and people in agriculture.

“We are lucky that the guys from Lloyds are all on the agriculture team and have got money each year to match-fund donations to charity, so we have all come together.

“We like a challenge, so we are going to give it our best go.”

Mr Goulding said he is organising a shorter fundraising ride for junior members later in the month.

The total raised for Saturday’s cycle already stands at more than £1,400.

Somerset YFC said on its fundraising page: “Sadly, some of our members have been touched by suicide and we want to help those who are in need through education, training and positivity. 

“We are starting in Wellington and will have various pitstops along the way. Please come along and support us. You are welcome to cycle part of the journey with us too.

“We are lucky enough to be taking part in this challenge with the help and support of Lloyds Bank.

“Help us raise some money for an excellent cause while, hopefully, having some fun along the way.”

The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs said YFCs looking to raise awareness of mental health issues can book a Rural+ session for their club, which has been developed with the Farming Community Network and the DPJ Foundation.