This November, why not join Bóthar in association with the Farmers Journal in the magical Cotswold Hills in the border regions of England and Wales? With the work of the year complete, take a break with other IFJ readers on a walking odyssey through the rolling hills and magical villages of a region with an ancient farming tradition. Tire yourself out among breath-taking scenery and then relax with a cool local brew in the company of new friends… and all while supporting the work of Bóthar.
The Cotswolds hills are criss-crossed with dry stone walls. The picturesque Cotswold landscape is hall-marked with hidden river valleys and distinctive market towns and villages made of the famous Cotswold stone. Many Cotswold villages have enigmatic names such as The Slaughters, Stow-on-the-Wold and Guiting Power. Centuries ago the Cotswolds was made wealthy by the wool trade, and the results of that wealth can be seen in the many fine manor houses and churches throughout the area. The Cotswold area is well loved as the ideal place to escape for a few days. Cotswold summer days are relaxed and long, but log fires in winter, spring bluebells or autumn colours are all good reasons why visitors come to the Cotswolds at any time of year.
Currently, Bóthar is desperately trying to raise enough funds to complete the creation of a small creamery for an impoverished community in in Rusizi, Rwanda, which is among the poorest communities in the world. The families there are already recipients of Bóthar dairy heifers airlifted in recent years but now they are ready for the next stage of development; their new creamery. This will allow the families there to not just add shelf-life to their dairy products but will also allow them increased income.
In 2011, a Neven Maguire appeal to IFJ readers gathered 55 in-calf dairy heifers which Bóthar then shipped to needy communities in Rwanda. These animals are now assisting these communities and families on their road to a better life; a life containing new possibilities in terms of health and education. Rwanda is one of many countries where the spectacular gift or an Irish cow can make a world of difference. The simple basic task of looking after the animal gives a form of ‘employment’. Then the food supply that follows in the form of milk production and ancillary dairy products ensure better nutrition and well-being. Through time, an extra animal can create an income providing education for the children of the family. Most families in such situations become independent of the project in a five year period at which time they can continue unaided on their road to empowerment.
Challenge treks in renowned historic and farming tradition locations are a feature of Bóthar fundraising events. Locations such as the Yorkshire Dales and the olive groves of Umbria in Italy have proved successes in the past. Pat McCarrick, Fundraising Projects Director with Bóthar said, “In an effort to maintain funding to established projects and in order to create new opportunities for poor families, we have to put fundraising events in place but we like to create win/win events. We feel our livestock projects deserve support but we also make our events as interesting and rewarding as possible. Walking in special locations meets this demand for us but more importantly, it provides a great opportunity for our supporters.”
IFJ readers who like to walk, need an autumn break or simply admire the work of Bóthar are encouraged to get involved in this inaugural event. And all-inclusive price of €950 per person is required. This includes flights, accommodation, food and expert local guides as well as your fundraising contribution to the charity. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this event. Simply download and complete this entry form and enclose a deposit of €50 to secure your place. The event takes place from November 4th to 8th inclusive and places are limited to 40 participants.
For further information on this event, please contact the Fundraising Projects office of Bóthar on 071 9120100, email events@bothar.ie
