MORE than 300 people from across Exmoor’s farming community gathered in Cutcombe Market, Wheddon Cross, for the annual ‘Singing in the Ring’ carol service.

They joined the Exmoor Hill Farming Network (EHFN) and the Farming Community Network (FCN) to show an auction market is far more than just a place to sell livestock - it sits at the very heart of the farming community.

Cutcombe Market’s auction ring was transformed into a festive winter wonderland for the third ‘Singing in the Ring’ service with a welcome from the Rev Preb Simon Hill, who is Archdeacon of Taunton, and the Rev Myles Wellborn, of Lynton and Lynmouth.

The service was led by the Rev David Weir, who oversees eight churches within the Exmoor Benefice.

People of all ages came together for the celebration, with a particular highlight being the participation of children from Cutcombe and Exford First Schools, who sang in the auction ring.

Readings were given by local farmers and representatives from Exmoor Farmers Livestock Auctions and the Exmoor Rural Health Hub, reflecting the wide network of support surrounding the national park’s farming families.

The evening concluded with a complimentary beef stew arranged by Heywood’s Café, along with festive refreshments served in the poultry room.

Network manager Katherine Williams said: “At a time when the farming community is facing significant challenges, the support shown at this event was incredibly heart-warming.

“It is difficult to put into words just how humbling it was, and I feel truly privileged to be part of it.”

Mr Weir said: “The cattle market is a hugely significant place for people on Exmoor.

“Singing in the Ring offers a wonderful opportunity to gather and celebrate the life of the market and the mutual support available through EHFN, FCN, chaplaincy, the local church, the health hub, and the café.

“This was a real celebration of all of that, and it was wonderful to have the archdeacon with us.”

FCN regional support officer Charmain Dascombe said: “It was a fantastic evening, bringing members of the farming community from Exmoor and beyond together

“During challenging times, it served as a powerful reminder that we are not alone.

“I felt honoured to represent FCN and our dedicated volunteers as we continue to support farming families.”

A total of £1,504.81 was raised through donations and a prize draw, which will be shared between EHFN, FCN and the Exmoor Benefice.

Exmoor Hill Farming Network was established in early 2014 to improve the viability and sustainability of Exmoor farming businesses through knowledge transfer, peer group support, training, and co-operation to safeguard upland farming, rural employment, and landscape management.

It has become the ‘go-to hub’ for information and contacts, used by a wide variety of land-based businesses, supporting about 450 farming businesses on Exmoor and surrounding areas.

A spokesperson said: “Sincere thanks go to local businesses, the Exmoor Trust, and all those who gave their time to help make the evening such a success.”

The 2026 ‘Singing in the Ring’ service has already been booked for Monday, December 14.