A County Durham farmer has been praised for raising more than £21,000 in memory of her late brother.
Working on her family’s dairy and sheep farm in Bishop Auckland, Katie Thompson organised a community raffle and disco that drew in friends, relatives, local businesses, and fellow farmers.
With support from local farmers and dozens of generous businesses and individuals who donated prizes ranging from bottles of whisky to sheep-dipping, Katie and her team exceeded their fundraising goals.
The event generated a remarkable £21,265 for The Farm Safety Foundation, the national charity known as Yellow Wellies.
Katie said the loss of her brother, Robert, to suicide helped her understand the mental health challenges faced within farming.
“Following the loss of my eldest brother to suicide at the age of just 21, I became increasingly aware of how common mental health struggles are within the farming community," she said.
"After hearing about the vital work of The Farm Safety Foundation, I decided to organise a fundraising event in its support.”
The charity focuses on improving physical and mental well-being among young farmers, challenging long‑standing attitudes within the industry.
Stephanie Berkeley, manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, described Katie’s efforts as exceptional.
“To raise £21,000 is an incredible achievement in itself, but what makes Katie's fundraising so special is the personal motivation behind it," she said.
"Turning such a difficult experience into something positive that will help protect and support others in the farming community is both inspiring and deeply moving.”
Katie met representatives from the charity at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show, where she received a fundraising certificate and a Golden Wellies pin badge in recognition of her contribution.
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She hopes the money raised will help prevent further tragedies.
“I believe it is incredibly important to break the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among men in farming, and I hope these funds help prevent another tragic loss of life," she said.
"I hope that this event can be a reminder to always be kind.”
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