A DRIVE to promote farming to the next generation has been backed for a further three years.

The Fallago Environment Fund has announced a £28,500 grant to support the hugely successful Border Union Schools Countryside Day.

Around 1200 primary five pupils from schools across the Borders are inspired every year by the day-long event at Springwood Park in Kelso.

The interactive sessions allow children to meet the animals, drive the tractors and even try their hand at milking during the informative and inspiring event.

Ahead of this year's Countryside Day on May 21, His Grace, the Duke of Roxburghe handed over the three-year sponsorship cheque.

He said: “The Border Union’s Schools Countryside Day is a wonderful event which educates the region’s children about their rural environment, and how it is managed and protected, in an engaging way.

“As well as an appreciation of country life, they also learn about the huge number of diverse and rewarding careers that the countryside offers and which we hope will inspire them to stay, live and work in the region.

"We’re delighted to be able to support the running of this important event.”

Fallago Environmental Fund shares the benefits of the Fallago Wind Farm located in Lammermuir Hills with projects that enhance the region’s built, natural and cultural environment.

The Fund comprises Roxburgh Estate, EDF Renewable and Hermes investments Management.

Mags Clark, executive director of the Border Union Agricultural Society, is delighted with the funding.

She told us: “The Schools Countryside Day is tremendously important to us, and we know that it is enjoyed and greatly valued by the pupils and the teachers who participate each year.

"We’re extremely grateful to the Fallago Environment Fund for its support.”

The Border Union Schools Countryside Day is also supported by Agrii, Bayer CropScience Ltd, BSW Timber, Charity Begins at Home, Ford & Etal Estate, George Marshall Tractors & Case IH, Greenvale AP, Kelso Farmers Market, Sainsbury’s and Scottish Borders Council.