01 Oct Young Farmers say ‘Leave a Light On’
Members of Lesmahagow YFC have released a music video to raise awareness for SAYFC’s ‘Are Ewe Okay?’ Mental Health Campaign.
Over several months the 7-member group (now known as Bagri), consisting of; singers- Neve and Mia Crooks; pipers- Tom Armstrong, Fraser Russell and Douglas Pinkerton; drummer- John Pinkerton and highland dancer- Elizabeth Leggate, have recorded and filmed their own version of ‘Leave a Light On’, a song made famous by Kilsyth singer Tom Walker.
Speaking on the final day of filming, band member and piper Fraser Russell spoke about the aim for the video:
“We’re really trying to raise awareness for the ‘Are Ewe Okay?’ campaign, because mental health is such an important topic in the agricultural industry. We have to make sure that farmers continue to talk as it can be quite an isolated and lonely industry at times. And things like Young Farmers in particular, help to keep that network open for communication and make sure that everybody is looking after each other”
The idea to record the video came from a powerful audience reaction from a live performance of the song at this year’s West Area Talentspot at the SECC Armadillo. One half of the band’s singing sister duo, Neve Crooks, recounted the feeling of performing on Young Farmer’s biggest stage:
“You literally can’t hear a single other person on stage with you, you feel like you’re singing all on your own and it’s terrifying but there’s something so exciting about it. When you look out and see all the faces and they’re all looking back at you, it’s just amazing- especially when performing with other members of your club, and in such an emotional way, it was really special.”
The music video, which is now live on the SAYFC’s YouTube Page, highlights the importance of mental health and support within the farming community. It was recorded with the help of videographer Sandy Butler and sound engineer Garry Boyle. With support from Galbraith, Scotmin Nutrition and the Red-Hot Chilli Pipers.
The hope is that as the video circulates online, it will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the strength found in solidarity. The ‘Are Ewe Okay?’ campaign continues to seek to make a positive impact, encouraging open conversations and providing resources and contact details for those in need.
To read more about ‘Are Ewe Okay?’ head to Are Ewe Okay?
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed please don’t hesitate to contact RSABI, their 24/7 Freephone Helpline is 0808 1234 555 or you can reach them via live webchat or by emailing helpline@rsabi.org.uk.