CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SUPPORT – NATIONAL FARMING CHARITY FCN TO HOST HARVEST FESTIVAL AT SHERBORNE ABBEY – 28th September

The Farming Community Network (FCN), a UK-wide charity supporting farmers and farming families through times of difficulty and change, will mark its 30th anniversary with a special Harvest Festival Service at the historic Sherborne Abbey on Sunday 28^th September 2025.

This milestone event will celebrate three decades of FCN’s vital work, offering a moment of reflection and gratitude for the resilience of the farming community and the dedication of FCN’s volunteers.

The service, taking place at 6:30pm, is being organised by FCN’s Dorset Group — a group of dedicated local volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring this national celebration to life.

Their efforts have already attracted generous support from local agri-businesses and community partners – with over £5,000 in donations already received, underlining the strength of rural networks in the South West.

Jude McCann, Chief Executive Officer of FCN, said: “For thirty years, FCN volunteers have been ‘walking with’ our farming community, helping people through issues both personal and business-related. This event is an opportunity to celebrate our vital farming community in Dorset and beyond, whilst recognising the hard work and dedication of our volunteers – Listening, Supporting and Connecting people with other help available.”

Bec Hill, Coordinator for FCN’s Dorset Group, said: “This celebration is not only about looking back at 30 years of FCN’s work, but also about bringing our community together to give thanks and look forward. We’re proud to be hosting this event in Dorset – a region with deep agricultural roots and a strong spirit of support.”

The event also helps to mark the launch of FCN’s new three-year strategy (2025–2027), which focuses on strengthening its core services, including its national Helpline and local casework, while expanding proactive initiatives such as its FarmWell platform – a hub for resources on resilience, mental health, and business planning.

The service will be followed by refreshments, and all are welcome to attend. RSVP is encouraged to help with catering arrangements (please contact: bec.fcn@gmail.com).