Why I am doing this

Tragically, three people working in UK agriculture die by suicide every week according to research by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. And sadly, most of us who work in farming will know of a family that has been devastated by suicide or struggling to cope with the effects of depression and anxiety. The situation is only getting worse as farmers confront the biggest disruption to their lives for 80 years.

Who am I?

I am CEO of the UK's largest cooperative buying group for farmers, the AF Group. We're a not-for-profit business and we buy everything for our 3,000 Members from fuel and fertiliser to phones and electricity.

On 18th August, I will compete in a full-distance triathlon or Ironman race in Copenhagen to raise money for YANA – You Are Not Alone.

What is YANA?

YANA is a registered charity set up to support people working in agriculture who are struggling with stress and depression. YANA has helped people I know, and it is no exaggeration to say that YANA has saved the lives of some of our Members.

YANA is for people who work in agriculture and rural businesses in any job or profession. By calling the YANA helpline you can speak to a person who really understands the industry and its problems. YANA helps people come to terms with their condition, find professional help and even access emergency funding. YANA is literally a lifeline.

My story

I have some personal experience of this because 20 years ago, I stopped functioning at work and was forced to take time off, despite appearing outwardly capable until the day I couldn’t go on. I was able to recover because my employer gave me time to get better, but I was out of action for nearly a year. I learned to manage without medication through a routine of rigorous exercise, which is how I got into triathlon. But the episode took a heavy toll on my family, and it never goes away. I’ve learned to control it, but I am not always much fun to be around.

You are not just indulging my hobby. I am 60 this year and I’ve been training for 8 months; 4.00am runs in February aren’t much fun.

Please donate

I know that we all bombarded with requests for donations. But YANA is quietly doing vital work for people we know in the farming community, and they need your support. Please help me raise money for YANA.