Unparalleled Success For RHASS In Its 225th Year
Record Turnover And Surplus In 2009
The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland recorded its best ever financial performance in 2009 with turnover increasing by 2% to £6.23 million and the operating surplus for the year increasing by nearly £450,000 to £1.07 million.
In the Society’s Annual Report for the year ended November 30, Chairman John Dykes describes the 225th anniversary year as an “unparalleled success.”
“It has been a privilege to be chairman of an organisation which in 2009 celebrated so many years of distinction and service to Scottish agriculture and rural industry,” he said. “There can be very few bodies with such an illustrious history that are still relevant to modern life and business in Scotland.
“As a charitable organisation, the Society’s original remit was to promote and advance farming and rural culture. Today, we continue that function through education, awards, scholarships, the recognition of excellence and the staging of one of the UK’s most iconic events, the Royal Highland Show.”
Last year’s show, with a record attendance of 176,522, was the major contributor to the Society’s performance, contributing £3.63 million to overall turnover.
Other main streams of income came from events at the Royal Highland Centre, membership subscriptions and ground and business rentals.
With costs during the year reduced by 6%, the operating surplus was £1.07 million, which will be invested in upgrading facilities at Ingliston and also earmarked for charitable activity.
“The surplus will enable us to invest in the showground now that the Norton Park development is on hold, but most importantly it allows us to support our work in promoting the farming and food industry, including the main funding for the Royal Highland Education Trust which continues to do such sterling work with Scotland’s schoolchildren, “ said Mr Dykes.
“Informing and educating consumers of all ages about the connection between Scottish farming and food and the crucial role a viable farming industry and vibrant countryside can make to the economy and general well-being of Scotland, lies at the core of our existence.”
The Society provided the main funding of £138,000 for RHET, which in 2009 celebrated its 10th anniversary and now inter-faces with one in eight children in both primary and secondary schools.
Major awards were also made to the University of Glasgow’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh. Numerous other awards and grants went to activities as diverse as breed society congresses, food excellence, academic achievement, long service and a Gaelic learner award at the National Mod.
Ray Jones, Chief Executive, who last month announced he is to retire at the end of this year, said that in a period that had been difficult for many businesses, the Society had achieved a most impressive set of results.
“Our trustees and staff have worked hard throughout the year but we must also recognise the contribution of the many hundreds of supporters who help at various events, plus the support of our 14,000 members.
“In addition to the highest ever attendance at the four-day Royal Highland Show, 2009 saw most of the public events on our grounds report higher attendance levels and we continue to attract well over one million visitors to Ingliston each year,” he said.
“Although we are very much involved with agriculture and associated industries, we also operate in other areas, especially the event industry. That income can support our on-going developments and, finance permitting, should allow us to transform our facilities at Ingliston over the next 5-7 years.”
Ends
Notes to Editors:
The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) was established in 1784 to promote the trade, agriculture, poetry, language and music of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Today, it is principally known for the Royal Highland Show but its activities cover much more. In addition to making awards and grants, the Society has a strong educational role in promoting all aspects of rural life in Scotland including agriculture, horticulture and forestry. The Royal Highland Education Trust fulfils this role through links with Scottish schools. The Society operates the Royal Highland Centre at Ingliston, Scotland’s largest indoor and outdoor event venue with over 200 events staged annually, attracting 1.2 million visitors.
The Royal Highland Show (June 24-27) is Scotland’s leading outdoor event showcasing farming, food and countryside. It regularly attracts over 160,000 visitors with the 2009 attendance breaking all records at 176,522. Sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland, the show is one of the country’s most iconic and historic brands, mixing serious agri-business with fun and entertainment. The 2010 show will be the 170th and the 50th to be held at Ingliston.
Further information:
Ross Muir at O’Leary RM Public Relations, The Coach House, Comely Park House, New Row, Dunfermline KY12 7EF on 07971 041853 or 01383 432608 or ross@olearyrmpr.co.uk
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