by Alan Quick

THE charity Farming Community Network (FCN) will hold its annual Plough Service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, Chulmleigh, on Sunday, January 14, starting at 6pm.

The speaker will be local farmer, Ian Pinhey.

Local FCN representative, Joanne Jones, said: "The service is an opportunity for members of the local community to join together to look forward to the coming year’s planting and growing season."

FCN is a Christian organisation and registered charity working in the farming community across the UK. It has hundreds of volunteers drawn from rural churches and farming backgrounds who provide a national telephone helpline (03000 111 999, 7am to 11pm) and a visiting service to farmers and families facing difficulties.

The representatives provide both pastoral and practical support to those dealing with such issues as financial difficulties, animal disease, mental health and family disputes.

FCN in Devon now has an office at the Devon YFC Rural Hub at Cheriton Bishop.

There will be refreshments available after the service at The Golf Course, Chulmleigh.