The Farming Community Network (FCN) will be hosting a free event for farming families at Ruthin Rugby Club tonight (October 19).

Dr Eilir Hughes, a GP based in Nefyn, will be speaking at the event regarding the importance of good physical and mental health for farming people. 

Dr Hughes was nominated last year for a Critical (key) Worker Award at the St David Awards.

Ably assisting on the night as compere will be former FUW President, Glyn Roberts.

This event is part of a wider project run by FCN to combat loneliness and social isolation in farming communities.

Research published by FCN and the University of Exeter’s Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR) in 2022 found that a lack of social opportunities in farming contributes to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Linda Jones, National Manager Wales at The Farming Community Network, said: “Farming people can find it extremely difficult to enjoy any quality time away from the farm due to numerous challenges such as lone working, geographical location and long working hours.

“These factors can significantly impact the health and wellbeing of farming people.

“We hope this event will help to bring local farmers and their families together and to meet new people.”

Alma Evans, FCN Cymru North Wales Volunteering Group chair, added: “We’re very much looking forward to our group’s Yarn in a Barn.

It will give us an opportunity to get together as farmers for a few hours to socialise and take away some top tips from Dr Hughes for good physical and mental health.”

The event starts at 7pm on Thursday, 19 October.

If you would like to secure your free place at this event, please get in touch with either Linda Jones by telephone on 07831 719019 or email linda@fcn.org.uk or Alma Evans by telephone 07539 410537 or email almaevans.fcn@gmail.com by 17 October.