NFU Mutual’s charitable arm has pledged £30,000 to support the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) Big Build campaign, to create a new permanent centre at the Royal Highland Showground for young farmers.

The campaign is looking to raise £1.6m for the project that creates “a much-needed hub for young people in agriculture to learn, connect and support one another”, said the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust.

The new centre will replace SAYFC’s former headquarters at Ingliston, which was recently demolished after being condemned. This has left the organisation without a permanent base for the first time in decades.

So far more than £900,000 has been raised for the campaign.

“The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust is very proud to support the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs as they embark on the development of their new building,” said Jim McLaren, chair of NFU Mutual and its charitable trust.

“SAYFC plays a significant role in nurturing the skills, confidence and leadership of young people in rural Scotland, and this investment will help ensure they have a modern, dedicated space from which to continue that vital work.”

SAYFC chief executive Penny Montgomerie added: “The support from the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust means a great deal to everyone involved with Young Farmers and the Big Build.

“As an organisation that is committed to supporting people in agriculture and rural life, they understand the importance of creating a permanent home for young farmers.

“This donation brings us even closer to our fundraising goal and will help us create a permanent home that supports, serves and brings together the future generations of farming.”

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