2016-09-28 |
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The Gift of the Gavel Raises Cash for Rural Charities
In July, 18 year old Jack Walton, a budding auctioneer from Worcestershire, set off on his charity fundraiser, travelling over 1,000 miles, to raise money for two rural charities; Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) and RSABI (Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution).
Two months later with 24 livestock auction marts under the hammer, Jack Walton has finished his travels, his gavel is at rest and he raised a huge £7316.97.
(L-R) Ken Nottage, Chief Executive of the Three Counties Agricultural Society, Malcolm Thomas MBE, Chairman of RABI, Jack Walton, Becky Davies, RABI Regional Manager and Clive Roads, Livestock Auctioneer at McCartneys.
Jack’s journey started at Dingwall and Highland Livestock Auction Mart in Invernesshire and finished at Truro in Cornwall. Sponsored by the Three Counties Agricultural Society, his journey has been exhilarating, informative and has raised money for two charities which support the farming communities in times of financial difficulties.
Jack’s
Journey began on Tuesday 19th July when he visited coupled with
an exhibition highlighting the work of the two charities, Jack
auctioned off one pen of fat lambs with the market’s commission
being donated to the fund.
Following his visit to Dingwall, Jack visited 24 auction marts
including; Stirling, Hexham, Clitheroe, Worcester, Hereford, Salisbury,
Acklington and many more in-between.
Commenting on the completion
of his challenge and journey, Jack said:
“I am completely overwhelmed
with the response I have received throughout the summer. I have
met the most wonderful people, auctioned some tremendous livestock
and I am very grateful to all the marts that have supported me
and to everyone who has donated so generously to the charities.
“The last six weeks has been an experience that I will never forget and has certainly cemented what I know are the foundations for a career in auctioneering. I would like to thank all of my sponsors including, JG Animal Health, The Three Counties Agricultural Society and Glendale PR and Marketing for their support throughout my journey.”
Ken Nottage, Three Counties Chief Executive, said:
“What a fantastic and unique
idea for raising money for charities which are close to Jack's and our hearts
here at Three Counties. We are proud to have supported Jack on his journey
and the amount he has raised is incredible. Congratulations Jack and we wish
you all the best for your time at university.”
Inspired by his Grandfather,
renowned Suffolk
breeder, Michael Walton from Roseden Farm in Northumberland,
Jack has always had a keen interest in livestock marketing, commenting:
“For
as long as I can remember I’ve loved attending livestock marts with my Grandfather
and was always itching to have a go on the rostrum. My journey not only raised
a significant amount of money for charity, but also gave me the opportunity
to meet people within the industry and gain knowledge and experience.”
In September, Jack will set off on a journey of a different kind as he heads off to the Royal Agricultural University, to read Rural Land Management, with the aim of fulfilling his dreams of one day becoming an auctioneer.
