An Ayrshire based "weekend-farmer" has been appointed to a senior role at a Scottish agricultural charity.

RSABI - formerly known as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution - has chosen Gregor Wilson as its new communications, marketing and events executive.

Joining RSABI with a strong design background, the charity says Gregor’s experience in digital, interactive, and environmental design will prove valuable in his new role with the charity which provides emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture.

Gregor’s role with RSABI will focus on driving awareness of the wide range of services offered by the organisation, ranging from emotional support via free counselling to practical support such as mediation, Help for Heating grants and a range of other financial support.

The role will also involve taking a lead in organising RSABI’s presence at events around the country and establishing and growing strong relationships with local organisations and stakeholders.

Based in Ayrshire, Gregor is not from a farming background, but enjoys helping out on a local livestock farm at the weekends.

Stephanie Lawler was also announced as RSABI's new finance administrator.

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gregor and Stephanie on board to deliver such important roles for RSABI.

"It is vital that awareness of our services continues to grow and that people in difficulty know we are here for them 24 hours a day, every day.

“Too often we hear from people who have been thinking about contacting us for weeks or even months.

The sooner people get in touch, the sooner we can start helping them get back on track.”

RSABI’s freephone Helpline - 0808 1234 555 - is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills.

RSABI can also be reached via the webchat function on its website www.rsabi.org.uk, 24 hours a day or by emailing helpline@rsabi.org.uk