UTASS (Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services) has reached a key milestone, marking 25 years since the charity first opened a premises in Middleton-in-Teesdale.
Although the charity was formed informally some 32 years ago, last Tuesday marked 25 years since Utass first opened its doors.
The original mission was to support the rural community of the Durham Dales and to ensure that no one feels left behind because of where they live. And what a journey it’s been.
Nine months after the doors opened in 2000 the farming industry was devastated by the foot and mouth outbreak.
They’ve stood alongside people through times of crisis, change, many challenges, and even global pandemics.
Staff, some of whom have been there from the very beginning, and trustees gathered to celebrate the occasion, with the guest of honour being the Revd Rachel Benson, who recently stepped down as a long standing patron.
The Friends of Utass scheme is being relaunched this month, as well as their 25 for 25 – a pledge to raise £25,000 in their 25th year to provide more opportunities for local people.
Chair of the trustees, Michael McGarry said: “Upper Teesdale and Weardale are special places, inhabited by independent minded, stoic, some would say stubborn, people. It was because of these traits and the fact that we are often, forgotten or overlooked, that Utass exists.
“We continue to develop and provide support to our communities. I never cease to be amazed at its reach within the Dales and its can-do attitude. I am so incredibly proud to chair this special organisation, following in the footsteps of Jonathan Nainby-Luxmoore and Richard Matthews.
“As we raise a glass to celebrate, we say thank you to those far-sighted people who set out to assist the farming community in a time of crisis, developing that ad hoc group into the charity we know and cherish.”
Manager Emma Spry said: “The work Utass does is grounded, and quietly life-changing.
“And it’s clear to me that the reason this charity has lasted 25 years is because of the strength of commitment – in our staff, in our volunteers, and our trustees, the values they all strive to live by every day: compassion, resilience, and a belief in community.
“Our celebration is about looking back with pride on everything that’s been achieved: the projects delivered, the partnerships built, the lives touched. But it’s also about looking ahead.
“We know that rural communities and farming face ongoing and new challenges – from isolation and access to services, to the impact of economic and environmental change. And we know we have more work to do.
“I know that I’m surrounded by people who care deeply and who know this community better than anyone. Huge thanks to our staff, volunteers, trustees, patrons, funders and supporters – past and present – we’ve made a lasting impact together. That’s the perfect foundation to build the next 25 years on.”
For more information or to pledge your support to Utass’ 25 for 25, contact 01833 641010 or visit utass.org.
