Mind Your Head Week: Prince William donates £5,000 to farmer Sam's walk of hope

Prince William donated £5,000 to support Sam Stables, a Herefordshire sheep farmer who began a 142‑mile walk on Feb 9 during Mind Your Head Week to raise funds and awareness for farming mental health; the fundraiser had raised over £21,000 by Feb 12.

Sam Stables, a Duchy of Cornwall tenant and sheep farmer from Herefordshire, began a 142‑mile walk on Monday February 9 as part of Mind Your Head Week. He launched the route from Ross‑on‑Wye market to highlight everyday pressures on farmers and to raise funds for the National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs. Mr Stables is the founder of We Are Farming Minds and said he wanted to give the next generation of farmers a stronger voice. He has received support from people along the route and from public donations, including a contribution from the Prince of Wales. Known details: - The walk covers about 142 miles and started on February 9 from Ross‑on‑Wye market. - The fundraiser had an initial target of £1,420 and stood at over £21,000 as of February 12. - Prince William donated £5,000 and sent the message: "Keep going, Sam! You're doing an amazing job! Thinking of you, W." - Sam Stables is a Duchy of Cornwall tenant, a sheep farmer, and the founder of the charity We Are Farming Minds. - Mr Stables said he was "absolutely over the moon" in response to the donation. Summary: The Prince of Wales' donation contributed to a significant fundraising total reported on February 12 and drew public attention to mental health challenges in farming. The walk has attracted local support and media interest. Mr Stables aimed to reach the Farmers' Club in London on Friday February 13 as the next milestone.