Farmers in the North East of Scotland are to stage a charity event in memory of the popular agricultural journalist Joe Watson.

Joe, agricultural editor of the Press and Journal newspaper died suddenly in March at the age of 43.  He was an award-winning writer and a driving force in agricultural journalism in Scotland, the UK and internationally.

In recognition of Joe’s work, the Huntly-Insch branch of NFU Scotland are holding a charity stockjudging and social evening hosted by Charlie and Gillian McCombie at Auchincrieve Farm, Rothiemay, on Friday 6 June, starting at 7pm.

The evening will be a celebration of Joe's life and work, with a special trophy in Joe’s name for the overall winner of the stockjudging competition to mark the occasion.  

Given Joe’s standing within the agricultural industry, an invite has been extended to all farmers and Young Farmers Clubs in the North East to take part.   Joe’s family – his mother Mirren and his brothers Fraser and Murdo – are planning to attend.

The event will raise funds for two charities: The Sandpiper Trust – a charity that provides medical equipment to deliver immediate care in remote and rural areas and a favourite of Joe’s - as well as the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance.

Branch chairman, John Gordon, from Wellheads, Huntly, said:
“Joe was passionate about the farming industry, particularly in the North East, and he was never afraid to tackle controversial issues and ask awkward questions to get to the bottom of matters.  

“He had a sound knowledge of all agricultural issues and all its complexities. His work was highly regarded as providing a balanced and informed view and was appreciated in the Press and Journal by both the farming community and the wider readership.

“By sharing a night in celebration of Joe’s life and work with his family, we hope this event goes some way to recognising the respect and high regard that the farming community had for Joe.”   

Ends

Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006

Notes to Editors
•    Huntly-Insch Branch is staging the Stockjudging & Social night in memory of Joe Watson at Auchincrieve Farm, Rothiemay, Huntly, AB54 7JR, courtesy of Charles and Gillian McCombie on Friday, 6 June at 7pm.   To assist with catering, anyone planning to attend is asked to contact 0131 472 4000.
•    More details from Regional Manager Lorna Paterson (007786 860453) or Local Group Secretary Richard Thompson (01542 882884)