Young farmers from across the north and north-east have been creating pieces of art out of bales across the Scottish countryside in a bid to promote Scotch Lamb and raise funds for charity.
Various bale sculptures ranging from teddy bears to trains, snails and steam trains, have been created as part of a competition organised by the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs (SAYFC).
Young Farmers Club members have been challenged to create bale art which includes a celebration of Scotch Lamb.
This coincides with red meat levy body Quality Meat Scotland’s (QMS) Wham Bam Lamb campaign, which sets out to try and raise awareness of Scotch Lamb and boost sales of the product.
A Justgiving Page has been set up so that people who see the bale art can make a donation in support of the STV Children’s Appeal, which has raised £13.7million in the past six years to provide support to more than 62,000 children across all regions of Scotland.
TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who is a trustee of the STV Children’s Appeal, will judge the bale art competition and select an overall winner.
“This is a brilliant initiative by Scotland’s young farmers and Quality Meat Scotland and I’m really looking forward to seeing the bale art entries,” said Ms Kelly.
“As well as bringing smiles to the faces of people who enjoy the creations springing up in stubble fields throughout Scotland, this year the young farmers will also help to raise money for the STV Children’s Appeal, an incredibly worthwhile cause which helps children who endure tough times throughout Scotland. Best of luck to everyone who is taking part.”
QMS chairman Jim McLaren said the organisation was delighted to see young farmers helping promote Scotch Lamb.
He said: “It is fantastic to see the next generation of our industry taking such pride in their brands and we hope that their creativity will also serve to inspire the public about all the Scotch Lamb brand stands for too.”
SAYFC chairwoman Suzie Dunn said: “The competition proved to be a huge success in 2016 when launched in our west region and in 2017 we have expanded the competition so all clubs can take part. We look forward to seeing displays throughout Scotland.”