Aberdeenshire fundraising ball benefits rural charities
A fundraising ball was a resounding success raising more than £250,000 for vital rural charities.
The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) Aberdeenshire Presidential Initiative Charity Ball was held at Thainstone Mart.
The event brought together 430 guests for an evening of celebration and generosity, with funds set to benefit RHASS, The Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) for The Big Build, and RSABI, as well as staging the initiative at the Royal Highland Show next year.
The team will continue its efforts over the next eight months, and is delighted that the funds already generated will make a meaningful difference to charity partners.
The money raised will also allow to shine a spotlight on Aberdeenshire’s world-renowned agriculture, food and drink, whisky, education, music, culture, tourism and local activities at the 2026 Royal Highland Show.
The highlight of the evening was a live auction, ably auctioneered by Colin Slessor, with additional lots available through a silent auction.
The evening was compered by the initiative’s vice-president, Dr Robert Lovie, who delivered a Toast to the Haggis as well as arranging a unique array of entertainment for guests to enjoy including musical performances, Highland dancing and a set from the Simon Howie dance band.
The event’s success was made possible through the generosity of key sponsors, including the evening’s main sponsor Stewart Trailers, along with Sinclairs Jewellers, Minto Branding, ANM group, ABP, Diageo and a host of other local and agricultural businesses.
The Presidential Initiative, headed up by President Pat Machray OBE, vice-presidents Dave Green, Dr Robert Lovie, Robert Maitland and Anna Mitchell, along with The Rev Ken MacKenzie LVO, as chaplain, extended their gratitude to all those who contributed to the evening.
Pat Machray said: “The generosity shown at the Presidential Initiative Charity Ball helped us to raise an astounding £250,000 which will directly support our partner charities, allowing us to expand our impact and contribute towards ensuring a thriving future for Scotland’s agriculture.
“This would not have been possible without the extraordinary support of so many, who gave sponsorship, unique auction lots, donations, time in kind, produce and of course to everyone who took tables and to those who were bidding so generously.
“The entertainment was wonderful from very talented musicians of all ages from across Aberdeenshire.
“With 20 per cent of all Scottish agriculture output coming from Aberdeenshire, we were delighted to use this event as an opportunity to showcase some of the fantastic food, drink and talent from across the region.
“As a team, we want to ensure by the time the Royal Highland Show 2026 concludes, our initiative has spread the word on all the north-east has to offer.”