Special harvest thanksgiving service pays tribute to Scottish farmers

The service aimed to raise awareness about the importance of the industry (Photo: RHASS)
The service aimed to raise awareness about the importance of the industry (Photo: RHASS)

A harvest thanksgiving service has taken place at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh to raise awareness about the importance of Scottish agriculture.

The special event took place on the Royal Mile on Sunday 1 October to give thanks for an abundant harvest.

The service also aimed to raise awareness about the importance of the industry as well as to pay tribute to the farmers who make it all possible.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables were also on display, provided by local farmers from East and West Lothian, and were donated to charities including the Salvation Army, Cyrenians and Social Bite.

The thanksgiving service was organised by the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) and led by Rev Sigrid Marten, Associate Minister of St Giles' Cathedral.

(Photo: RHASS)
(Photo: RHASS)

She said: "The gathering in of the harvest has been celebrated over thousands of years by many cultures and religious traditions.

“We are excited that we have been able to work closely together with the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland to highlight the vital role that Scottish farmers play.

(Photo: RHASS)
(Photo: RHASS)

"Bringing farming equipment to the Royal Mile is one way to remind us of our dependence on those who work hard to produce our food.”

The combine and tractor were provided by RHASS director Bill Gray, who farms in the Scottish Lowlands.