THOUSANDS have been raised for charity at a dinner held to say farewell to the current Natioan Farmers' Union (NFU) president. 

The Big Bash, which was held at Sandy Park in Exeter, Devon, was to thank Minette Batters who has been president of the NFU for six years. 

Nearly 500 guests attended the black-tie celebration, which saw more than £4,300 raised in a charity draw.

The money raised will go to the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institute, the Farming Community Network and the Addington Fund.

Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner and live music from local band, Reckless. 

Sophie Herd, NFU Devon assistant county adviser, organised the event. 

“Big Bash was a huge success and it was great to see hundreds of members enjoy a fun evening in celebration of our farming community in Devon," she said. 

“With Minette being a farmer in the south, we felt it only right to pull together an event of good food and music to give her the send off she deserves.

“It was a wonderful event that brought our members together and it was fantastic to have such great sponsorship for the night as well.”

The annual NFU conference will take place later this month, where Minette's successor will be voted in.