A BLOSSOM walk, hog roast and auction will raise funds for a charity that provides support to farming families.

The event will raise funds for the Farming Community Network (FCN) when it is held on May 10 at Lower House Farm, Canon Frome, near Ledbury.

The Herefordshire branch of FCN was launched at the end of last year and is run by volunteers who previously worked under the Herefordshire Rural Support Network banner.

The volunteers offer individual support to farmers on problems that arise in the business or at home, ranging from farm finance and regulation to issues around succession or isolation.

Bruce Gilbert, Herefordshire NFU chairman who is hosting the event, said: “This is an event to celebrate farming in Herefordshire and to thank FCN for their support of farming families in the county.

“All funds raised will be used to support FCN’s work in Herefordshire and there will also be a raffle to help bolster the fundraising total.

“The money will be used to pay for a campaign to increase the number of FCN volunteers in the county and to pay for their necessary training."

Bill Wiggin, north Herefordshire MP, will open the event and there will also be a hog roast and auction challenge.

Nick Read, Herefordshire FCN county co-ordinator and agricultural chaplain for the Herefordshire Diocese, said: “On behalf of FCN we are very pleased the NFU and Bruce Gilbert are supporting the charity which is busier than it has been for some time.

“Anything the farming community can do to raise funds and promote the work of FCN is very welcome.”

The blossom walk starts at 6.30pm and tickets cost £10 per person.

For further details or to book tickets call the NFU regional office on 01952 400500.

The FCN helpline is open from 7am to 11pm every day of the year and those who need support can dial 0845 367 9990.

Farmers can also contact FCN Herefordshire by emailing Rev Read on agchap@btinternet.com or by calling 07973 361055.