CCOUNTRYSIDE A M P A I G N S • C O M M E N T • C U L T U R E • C O M M U N I T Y SPRINGSPRING 22017017 £3.50£3.50 (when sold)sold) ONLINEONLINE ABUSABUSEE ALLIANCE LegislatingLegislating fforor countryside-alliance.org.ukcountryside-alliance.org.uk ccyberyber bbullyingullying STAYSTAY SSAFEAFE IN THE FIELD New QuornQuorn hhatat iiss bbothoth modernmodern andand traditionaltraditional OUTDOOROUTDOOR THERAPTHERAPYY HowHow fl y fi shing helpshelps ladies with FRIEDFRIED bbreastreast ccancerancer CROW?CROW? Yes,Yes, reallyreally

The Gamekeeper’s Dog Enjoy an excerpt from John Cowan’s book TheThe mamagazinegazine ooff

CA SUMMER COVER RG2.indd 3 17/02/2017 12:44 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE MEMBERS GET A FREE PAIR OF ‘EVOLUTION HUNTER’ SHOOTING EYEWEAR WITH PRE-BOOKED TICKET

Use the code COUNTRYSIDEALLIANCE when you buy tickets

For full T&Cs visit www.thegamefair.org

Gaim Fair.indd 1 17/02/2017 14:39 4 The Alliance unveils Contents its new look SPRING 2017

EDITOR’S LETTER 017 is something of a numbers ➺ IN THIS ISSUE game. Fresh from celebrating 2 350 years of the Cottesmore Hunt (p44) we now move on to the Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust’s silver anniversary (p36) which will News and campaigns PLUS WILFRED see a series of conferences around the 4 News EMMANUEL-JONES’ country looking ahead to the future of The RSPCA, the Alliance’s updated look and COUNTRYSIDE gamekeeping. The Countryside Alliance new legislation celebrates 20 years this year, which is a 11 Policing and Crime Act page 50 good moment to refl ect that many of the Our shooting and political teams brief you things we love can adapt and thrive in the modern world while still retaining core Features 34 Chief Constable Dave Jones values (this is also showcased by the new 12 A stalk to remember North Yorkshire’s top Policeman writes about Quorn Hunting Hat on p15). Sport unites the generations, as Sam Thompson combatting rural crime The Countryside Alliance is certainly found out with a client 36 Happy anniversary, GWT embracing this next phase of life, and 15 Here come the girls The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust is 25 years old and pictured right you will see our new logo, Sue Shaw and Polly Portwin are boosting our still as committed as ever the result of the work of top designer projects with their expertise 39 Wild dining Steve Edge. You will be able to read more 18 Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland Damien McCrystal writes of a unique about the new family of logos created by How fl y fi shing can be breast cancer therapy fundraising banquet Steve in our next issue as our individual 20 Happy – and safe – hunting 41 Unity in the fi eld projects roll out their fresh new identities. The new Quorn hat puts safety fi rst Polly Portwin on how hunting and shooting came Two such projects each enter their 11th 23 Fishing 4 Schools together on a shoot year of operation this year. The inspiring Charles Jardine has big plans for our fl agship 43 The Gamekeeper’s Dog Fishing 4 Schools programme (p23) is charitable project John Cowan’s popular book and how you can take in buoyant form as its director Charles 26 The Welsh Rural Oscars go to…. advantage of our exclusive offer Jardine explains, and on p18 three of our The coveted dragon-red plaques are handed out in 44 Cottesmore and more expert volunteers explain why their skills Cardiff Bay The hunt is in good heart as it celebrates its th work together at the heart of our Casting 28 Where urban meets rural 350 birthday for Recovery programme, which uses Liam Stokes on helping to close the 47 Events fl y fi shing as therapy for ladies with perceived divide The dates you need breast cancer. 30 The Ride of My Life 48 The Countryside in War Elsewhere this Spring, we bring you An extract from Michael Clayton’s memoirs with a The equine hero of Ypres started life in the fi eld a briefi ng on the Polcing & Crime Act (p11), special offer for members with the Albrighton celebrate the Welsh Rural Oscars (26) and 33 The anti-social face of social media 50 My Countryside hear from North Yorkshire Chief Constable Jim Barrington is optimistic even when online trolls Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones on why he was motivated Dave Jones on bringing down rural crime are at their worst to start the Black Farmer brand (p34). Enjoy this diverse and packed issue.

Jill Grieve, Editor Follow me on Twitter @CAjilly

24-hour Countryside Alliance Fax Countryside Alliance legal hotline Ireland 020 7793 8484 magazine is published 0871 919 3505 [email protected] four times a year Chairman 02892 639911 Website on behalf of The decision of Countryside Simon Hart MP Insurance hotline countryside-alliance.org the Countryside 0871 919 9172 Scottish Countryside Alliance by BPG Media Alliance Board regarding Chief executive Alliance Email 01476 859849 Tim Bonner Campaigns infosca@scottishcountry info@countryside- www.bpgmedia.co.uk Board vacancies and a ballot of 020 7840 9250 sidealliance.org alliance.org Editor Jill Grieve 0131 335 0200 members ahead of the AGM on Events and Advertising Publisher fundraising By post Charlie Coups 12 September appears on the BPG Media 020 7840 9298 Countryside Alliance, Bethan Watson 1 Spring Mews c.coups@bpgmedia. Countryside Alliance website. Membership hotline PR and media Tinworth Street co.uk 020 7840 9300 020 7840 9220 London SE11 5AN 01476 859838 www.alamy.com photo: Cover

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 3

3, 4-5, 7, News JH RG.indd 3 20/02/2017 09:59 ➺ MORE NEWS Sign up for our regular Grass e-route newsletter: www.countryside-alliance.org/ca/grass-e-route

Review Round-up of the stories that matter to you.

COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE Welcome from our New logo, same values chief executive In the The Countryside Alliance is celebrating its 20th Countryside anniversary with a vibrant new suite of logos Alliance’s 20th year we are ushering in a new era. Our o mark its 20th anniversary campaigning we do in other areas traditional core T the Countryside Alliance has such as rural broadband and our values will remain changed its branding. The Game-to-Eat programme.” and the organisation of which you new look emphasises the “We are extremely grateful to Steve are a member will still stand for Alliance’s aim to ensure a Edge who generously donated his hunting, shooting, fi shing, farming future for the countryside which both and his agency’s time and expertise to and the rural way of life as we preserves its traditional values and create our new logo. Steve is one of always have. However, we also need promotes a thriving rural community Britain’s foremost designers working to move forward in this electronic, and economy; a countryside sustainably for some of Britain’s top brands news hungry and politically unstable managed and sustainably enjoyed; a including Purdey, House of Garrard, age, so how we look and the way countryside where rural communities and Fortnum and Mason to name but we communicate across print and have equal access to the facilities and a few. Steve is a long-term supporter of digital platforms is changing. You will services enjoyed in urban communities; the work of the Countryside Alliance have seen our new logo opposite, a countryside where people can and a committed angler. We have which is central to that evolution, pursue their businesses, activities and been delighted to work with him to and our new website is also vital. Our lives in a society that appreciates and develop the new Countryside Alliance magazine is also moving forward understands their way of life. brand logo – one that will increase our and this is the fi nal issue in the Countryside Alliance chief executive capacity to communicate in a digital age current format. I hope you like Tim Bonner said: “We are committed and stand us in good stead for many our new look and will continue to to supporting people who hunt, shoot years to come.” support our work. and fi sh – that won’t change. This is New logos for projects including about communicating the remarkable Fishing 4 Schools, Game-to-Eat and the “You will have seen work we do to a much wider audience. Countryside Alliance Awards will be our new logo opposite, We’ve always been a great campaigning unveiled in our Summer issue alongside which is central to that organisation but we need to work an interview with Steve, where he harder at communicating that describes the vision for the dynamic evolution, and our new message and the broad range of new family of brand marks. website is also vital. ”

There is no change in our workload, and this year has already got off to a busy start on many fronts, from our input into the Policing & Crime Bill to celebrating the Welsh Rural Oscars and launching a prize draw with Beretta (see p40). As ever we will always be available to you whether at shows and events, or through email and social media and I look forward to “We are extremely grateful to Steve Edge discussing our campaigning work, who generously donated his and his our new brand and our hopes for agency’s time and expertise to create the next 20 years. our new logo.” Tim Bonner, Chief Executive Follow me on Twitter @CA_TimB

4 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

3, 4-5, 7, News JH RG.indd 4 20/02/2017 09:47 SERVICES The Quarter The State of Rural Services OUR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE The Countryside Alliance was at the retail sector; mental health services; PAST THREE MONTHS Parliamentary launch of the State of older people’s services; public health DECEMBER Rural Services 2016 report (published services and community assets. by the Rural Services Network Members and supporters will be well ● Boxing Day saw cheering crowds in January 2017) which provides aware of the parlous state of many of supporting hunts up and down the evidence regarding the provision of our services, but we were encouraged country. Please see our Facebook page for services to residents and businesses by the media coverage the report extensive photography. Also this month, in rural England. The report covers generated, which can only be CA head of policy Sarah Lee called for nine service areas: local buses and positive as we work to tackle the a “365 day a year tourism season” while community transport; welfare services; blatant inequalities of rural giving evidence to the EFRA committee on access to cash; further education; the service provision. boosting the tourism sector in England.

JANUARY

● Avian fl u saw rural organisations work with the Government to circulate advice. The Countryside Alliance raised concerns about the BBC Environmental Audit Committee report into The Future of the Natural Environment after the EU Referendum, arguing that Holding the BBC to account the report will create confusion due to its The Countryside Alliance (CA) is with regards to editorial complaints approach to ‘rewilding’. continuing to hold the BBC and its in relation to broadcast news and presenters to account. In September, current public policy. Chris’ activities FEBRUARY 2016, our complaint regarding Chris will, therefore, be outside the remit of ● The Alliance’s new logo began its roll- Packham breaching impartiality rules Ofcom’s limited role. out at the launch of our gun draw for the was dismissed by the BBC Trust, No doubt emboldened by the nature limited-edition Beretta 490 Serpentina at ludicrously claiming that he was not of the new Charter’s and Ofcom’s Beretta’s London showroom (see advert a BBC presenter. regulatory roles, earlier this year Chris on p40 for details of the draw). The Savills Though disappointed with the launched a broadside on us on the Countryside Alliance Point-to-Point took Trust’s decision, we were hopeful Huffi ngton Post blog, accusing us of place at Badbury Rings in Dorset. that the new BBC Charter would using ‘dirty tricks’. As we have always ensure the corporation would be maintained, Chris is free to his views, more accountable in future. However, but he should not use a publicly now that the full details have been funded platform on which to air them. published regarding Ofcom’s new The CA will continue to challenge role in regulating the BBC, it is clear Chris and the BBC in the media when that the Charter falls well short of they continue to fail rural communities what we were hoping for. Ofcom will like they have done over the past only regulate, and be the fi nal arbiter few years.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 5

3, 4-5, 7, News JH RG.indd 5 20/02/2017 09:47 TATTERSALL SHIRTS WINCHCOMBE (SHORT-SLEEVE) FROM EACH TYPICAL HIGH £ STREET PRICE: ONLY £ .74* 20 47 + £5.95 P&P

You can now purchase any of our country Tattersall shirts for £22.50 each, or buy any two for only £40.

Combining traditional English check designs with seasonal colours, our range of long-and short-sleeve Tattersall shirts are classic yet contemporary style at its best. Made from luxurious 100% brushed cotton, each shirt is impeccably tailored and completed with coordinating contrast details to the cuffs and collar lining. Machine washable at 30°. All Samuel Windsor clothing includes a 30-day no quibble worn or unworn returns guarantee. Sizes (to fit chest): Small (up to 37”), Medium (38-41”), Large (42-45”), X Large (46-49”), XX Large (50-52”), XXX Large (53-54”).

Please add £5.95 P&P per order. Offer subject to availability. Please allow up to 7 working days for delivery. *We compare all of our prices with other retailers, to calculate an average high street price for each product.We do this each month, and we make sure that we compare products of a similar quality, specification and design - though each product will clearly not be identical. The typical high street price of a Tattersall shirt is £47.74. Price comparison correct as of 6th February 2017. The individual comparisons can be found for each product on our website.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS “Really love the quality of this shirt. I’m sure it will last me many years.” “Samuel Windsor can always be relied upon to provide great products at excellent prices with reliable and fast delivery.”

WINCHCOMBE ARDEN SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12WI SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12AR LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13WI LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13AR

DELAMERE CANNOCK SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12DE SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12CA LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13DE LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13CA

CARRICK CHARNWOOD SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12CR SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12CH BRITISH LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13CR LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13CH MENSWEAR’S BEST KEPT HOLME WYCHWOOD SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12SE SHORT-SLEEVE BVS7S12WY SECRET LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13SE LONG-SLEEVE BVS7S13WY

30-DAY NO QUIBBLE 96% 110,000 INDEPENDENT ORDER BY 3PM FOR RETURNS GUARANTEE GUARANTEE CUSTOMER REVIEWS SAME DAY DISPATCH 0871 911 7044†

†Calls cost 13p per minute plus your QUOTE 70462 phone company’s access charge. www.samuel-windsor.co.uk/70462

Samuel Windsor_1.indd 1 17/02/2017 14:40 RSPB Birdcrime Report massages statistics In February the RSPB published its These fi gures refer to the total relationships that have been built Birdcrime Report for 2015, providing number of incidents relating to with farmers, gamekeepers and a summary of the offences against birds of prey reported to the others. Nowhere is this divisiveness wild bird legislation that were RSPB. Less than half of these reported clearer than in the conclusion to reported to the RSPB. While we are incidents go on to be confi rmed, the report. The report concerns grateful for the work the RSPB do even fewer lead to a successful 2015, yet the conclusions are in the detection of bird crime, it is conviction. Even so, the total number headlined by a large pie-chart regrettable that the presentation of of such reported incidents is in highlighting a high number of these statistics once again seems decline. The fi gures quoted from gamekeepers convicted of driven by a desire to create a narrative the RSPB press release represent raptor crimes over the previous which supports an agenda, including a 33 per cent decline since 2010. 25 years, implying that this remains the introduction of an offence of This is especially pleasing given the a serious problem. Yet the RSPB’s vicarious liability and the licensing of enormous increase in many raptor reports for 2006–2015 show that grouse moors, which the evidence populations and the improvements in gamekeepers were convicted of just simply does not support. raptor crime detection made by the 5 per cent of the 1,550 individual The press release circulated by RSPB and others during this time. charges brought during that 10-year the RSPB to mark the release of the There is, however, a regrettable period. The RSPB’s focus on the report stated that “196 reports of tendency for the RSPB’s press gamekeeping community is totally shooting and destruction of birds releases around their Birdcrime disproportionate, and extremely of prey and 50 reports of wildlife Reports to be needlessly divisive damaging to its relationship with poisoning and pesticide related and to ignore both the progress that those they should be actively seeking offences across the UK in 2015”. has been made and the valuable to work in partnership.

ANIMAL WELFARE Common sense on dog breeding The Countryside Alliance has welcomed the decision by the Government to allow responsible dog breeders to have up to two litters a year before being licensed. The current law allows dog breeders to have up to four litters a year before needing a licence. There have been calls for signifi cant changes to the law with some even calling for those who have just one litter of puppies a year to have to register with their local authority and display their registration number when advertising. The CA made representations to the Government’s determination to common sense-based approach to Government requesting that any improve welcome standards, the calls modify the current law. changes not be too burdensome on for all breeders to have to register with “Puppy farming is a serious welfare responsible small scale hobby breeders. their local authority, even those who issue and the CA supports any moves In early February 2017, in response produce only one litter, would have to tackle it. It is widely accepted, to a Government consultation, the been overly burdensome on hobby however, that the hobby breeding of Department for Environment Food & breeders and we are glad that the working dogs is generally carried out Rural Affairs published a ‘Next Steps’ more extreme calls have been rejected to high welfare standards and we report, stating that the four-litter limit by the Government. believe that licensing breeders who would be reduced to two. “This law affects many farmers and produce fewer than three litters CA chief executive, Tim Bonner, breeders of working dogs and we would have been overly draconian said: “While fully supportive of the are pleased with the Government’s and a waste of scarce resources.”

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 7

3, 4-5, 7, News JH RG.indd 7 20/02/2017 09:48 AIRGUNS Ill-thought out airgun legislation in Scotland The Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015 came into force in January, meaning all airguns in Scotland now have to be licensed. Those with a fi rearm or shotgun licence will not require a licence until the existing one SHOOTING is due for renewal. However, those carrying airguns into Scotland for Standing up competitive reasons or pest control will need to pay for a permit (£20). for shooting The Scottish Countryside Alliance is vehemently against this new HSBC has confi rmed it has no policy legislation and will continue to update discriminating against shooting, and members on progress. has offered its services to businesses it had previously rejected. Having heard rumours that HSBC HUNTING was declining services to businesses associated with shooting, the CA Scottish hunting contacted one affected business to

confi rm what was happening. We update Renton Ian found that at least one customer had As Scotland’s foxhound packs doff

been informed that shooting was a cap to the 13th February as a Photo: considered a ‘prohibited sport’ and, signifi cant date in their diary it’s andd accountabilityb l off practitioners in as such, services had been denied. business as usual! the management of wild mammals. The business had written to the In November 2016 the Scottish Further to this, we have initiated bank to complain but received Government’s review of the a series of open days for Police no response. Protection of Wild Mammals Scotland operatives and interested CA chief executive Tim Bonner (Scotland) Act 2002 was published. MSPs to help them understand the wrote to Douglas Flint, the chairman Evidence for Lord Bonomy’s review working dynamic of a foxhound of HSBC UK, to raise our urgent was submitted by the Scottish kennel. We do still have concerns concerns. In the letter, Tim pointed Countryside Alliance (SCA), and in relation to what would be best out the value of game shooting to the SCA helped to coordinate described as draconian changes to the UK economy and the importance meetings between the review the law and working hard with the of shooting sports to millions of team and representatives from the Scottish Government and our legal participants and asked if a policy Scottish mounted and hill foxhound team to fi nd a practical outcome. discriminating against participants community. It was also arranged for The fact that we still have a form of was in place at HSBC. Mr Flint Lord Bonomy to attend and observe fox hunting in Scotland is testament responded very quickly to tell us a mounted operation. to the determination of the people that no such policy existed and We welcomed Cabinet Secretary involved. Foxhound packs continue committed to looking into the cases Roseanna Cunningham’s to make a major contribution to the we had raised. Having investigated, endorsement of Lord Bonomy’s social cohesion and community spirit HSBC found that its policies were fi ndings, particularly that the of the locality and to highly valued indeed being misapplied, causing searching and fl ushing by two dogs features of rural life, something shooting businesses to be unfairly would not be as effective as that recognised within the review. denied access to services. Mr Flint done by a full pack of hounds, but Scotland’s mounted packs emerged told us that HSBC would be ensuring also that imposing such a restriction from the fi ght on February 13, 2002, that shooting clients would not could seriously compromise effective blooded but unbeaten. Fifteen years be penalised in the future, and pest control in the country. on they continue working with that they would be contacting the We are committed to working with farming and conservation interests to shooting businesses affected to date. the Scottish Government, Police ensure that fox populations are kept Subsequently we did verify that this Scotland and stakeholders on a Code to a minimum at sensitive times of contact had been made. of Practice to strengthen the scrutiny the year.

8 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

3, 4-5, 7, News JH RG.indd 8 20/02/2017 09:48 p09_CA_Spring16.indd 9 17/02/2017 14:44 CASHMERE-MIX JUMPERS SKY (V-NECK) OUR EACH TYPICAL HIGH £ STREET PRICE: PRICE £ * 35 56 + £5.95 P&P

We are delighted to offer Countryside Alliance magazine readers the opportunity to purchase any of our classic cashmere-mix jumpers, in a choice of crew or V-neck, for only £35 each. Timeless classics, our cotton and cashmere mix jumpers exude smart sophistication. With a gloriously soft texture, they provide perfect lightweight warmth and are great for layering over a shirt. With a classic cut, they are made from a 95 per cent cotton and 5 per cent cashmere blend. Available in crew or V-neck styles. Machine washable at 30°. Sizes (to fit chest): S (36-38”), M (39-42”), L (43-44”), XL (45-48”), XXL (49-50”), XXXL (51-52”).

Please add £5.95 P&P per order. Offer subject to availability. Please allow up to 7 working days for delivery. *We compare all of our prices with other retailers, to calculate an average high street price for each product. We do this each month, and we make sure that we compare products of a similar quality, specification and design - though each product will clearly not be identical. The typical high street price of a cashmere-blend jumper is £56. Price comparison correct as of 6th February 2017. The individual comparisons can be found for each product on our website.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS “Loved the colour and fit. Very impressed with the quality”. “Very happy with my purchase, quality very good and service excellent! Arrived in good time, well packed, and I will certainly be recommending Samuel Windsor to family and friends.”

LEMON SHADOW CREW NECK BVK7S33LE CREW NECK BVK7S33SL V-NECK BVK7S34LE V-NECK BVK7S34SL

LIGHT GREEN SKY CREW NECK BVK7S33GN CREW NECK BVK7S33SK V-NECK BVK7S34GN V-NECK BVK7S34SK

GARNET LIGHT GREY CREW NECK BVK7S33GA CREW NECK BVK7S33GY BRITISH V-NECK BVK7S34GA V-NECK BVK7S34GY MENSWEAR’S BEST KEPT OLIVE NAVY CREW NECK BVK7S33OL CREW NECK BVK7S33NY SECRET V-NECK BVK7S34OL V-NECK BVK7S34NY

30-DAY NO QUIBBLE 96% 110,000 INDEPENDENT ORDER BY 3PM FOR RETURNS GUARANTEE GUARANTEE CUSTOMER REVIEWS SAME DAY DISPATCH 0871 911 7044†

†Calls cost 13p per minute plus your QUOTE 70461 phone company’s access charge. www.samuel-windsor.co.uk/70461

Samuel Windsor_2.indd 1 17/02/2017 14:45 FEATURE LEGISLATION The new Policing and Crime Act – what you need to know ➺ We take a closer look at the implications for fi rearms law and police powers when dealing with hunt protestors.

he Policing and Crime of hunting animals or Act received royal assent shooting game or vermin. earlier this year and makes That same person can issue signifi cant changes to written permission to other Tour fi rearms law. These laws are justly certifi cate holders to lend stringent, but it is undeniable that certain shotguns and rifl es and to elements of our legislation serve no supervise non-certifi cate purpose other than to make life diffi cult holders. for the legal shooting community, who A second amendment have always shown themselves to be gives the police an eight- overwhelmingly law-abiding. Three such week window after the elements are subject to amendments expiry of a shotgun or within the Policing and Crime Act. These fi rearms certifi cate in which amendments were fi rst championed by the certifi cate will remain the Countryside Alliance, because they valid assuming the renewal make a real difference to the lives of paperwork was submitted fi rearms owners. eight weeks before the One amendment tackles the confusion expiry date. We know from over who can lend a shotgun or rifl e to our own research that police

someone who doesn’t hold a certifi cate licensing teams are placing Emma Richardson Photo: of their own. On designated clay-grounds huge numbers of people on Section 7 ammunition from Section 5 back there has never been a problem as they Temporary Permits when their fi rearms to Section 1, so rifl e owners will no have their own legal exemptions, but certifi cates expire, despite the certifi cate- longer need specifi c permission to everywhere else, anyone wishing to holder submitting their renewal hold expanding ammunition for their lend a gun has run into the uncertainty paperwork on time. This amendment will stalking and vermin shooting. This will surrounding the defi nition of ‘occupier’. alleviate the need to issue Temporary make everyone’s fi rearm certifi cate less The amendment introduced by the Permits, freeing the licensing departments complex, but will be of particular use Policing and Crime Act fi nally brings from that administrative burden and to owners of large calibre rifl es used clarity — someone without a certifi cate allowing them to focus on turning around for hunting abroad, who until now have will be able to borrow a shotgun from renewals in a timelier fashion, resulting in not been able to hold and practice with anyone who has the right to allow others a more effi cient service. the expanding ammunition they will to enter the premises for the purpose A third amendment moves expanding use abroad.

or many years hunts have faced not have enough advanced information to be able to act swiftly. violent protestors wearing face to have reasonable belief that ‘activities The Policing and Crime Act, passed coverings, often paramilitary may take place in any locality...that are earlier this year, amends the law so that in style, designed not only to likely (if they take place) to involve the the power to remove face coverings does intimidateF but also to make it diffi cult commission of offences’, but are suddenly not now have to be authorised in writing for them to be prosecuted where they faced with masked protestors and need where it is not practical, but can be given break the law. Under section 60AA (3) of orally and recorded in writing afterwards. the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act Full use of this power is vital if constables 1994 there is a stand-alone power which are to prevent offences which masked allows police constables to require the protestors may otherwise commit, removal of face coverings where these emboldened by their sense of anonymity, are used for the purpose of concealing and also reduce the unnecessary identity. However, this power could only intimidatory nature of such protests. This be used if authorised in advance and in change is expected to come into force in writing. This requirement is fi ne where the next few months. We will be writing the police know in advance when and to chief constables and police and crime where a protest is to occur. It is wholly commissioners to stress that the rural impractical in the light of modern community expects the police to make methods of protest, such as fl ash mobs the fullest use of the power when faced using social media, where the police may with masked protestors. ●

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 11

11 policing act JH.indd 11 20/02/2017 11:20 FEATURE STALKING A stalk through time ➺ Professional stalker SAM THOMPSON recollects an unusual client whose journey was fi rmly rooted in the past.

hen, on the third day On David’s second day on the hill, we wheeling themselves about to keep the of stalking with you, took shelter in a hollow while I rolled the wind on the right side, and we scanned a a client has not raised long glass over the ground, searching for while longer before moving on in search of a rifl e, you start to the right group of beasts. David spoke their husbands. questionW whether you’re any good. of how the gamebook had become an We tramped on, silent over the steep It was mid-August, the stag season was obsession, and his only real link to his ground laced with damp scree, and I hoped well underway, the heather was in its full history. As I listened to his quiet voice, that there would be stags sitting on the fl at parade colours, when my guest met me the sponge of sphagnum moss beneath ground over the hill. Stopping at the top at the larder on morning one out of fi ve. us allowed me to sink a little deeper into for a breath, we sat down on the granite, Taking a week of stalking for yourself is the hillside and started to release its peaty looking east towards the sea. We talked a not the usual thing to do, but some people water into my breeches. little of the deer, and it was nice to have a enjoy the unusual, and a man who wants He explained his childhood, and his lust guest who would rather talk of the deer fi ve days of stalking without a day off is at for an adventure that never really came, than the details of a rifl e or binoculars. How least going to be a gentleman. as university followed school and a good the hinds will move to there if they get He had driven up from Kent or some job followed that. Then a family of his own our scent and how they will join with the such place for the occasion, and had came, and this combined with a veterinary stags for the greedy violence of the rut in booked a week of stalking as a complete practice that took him 25 years to establish September, before parting into their single beginner. His name was David, and at 62 left him little time for himself. sex groups again for the winter. years of age, some would have said he Following the discovery of his A way down, maybe a mile below us, was a little late to be taking up any sport, grandfather’s gamebook, however, the idea we spied the deer. Seven stags sitting as especially stalking. But he proved himself of stalking had grown in David’s mind, “HE HAD NEVER MET THE MAN, able enough with a rifl e on the range, and until one day he asked a pheasant shooting AND KNEW VERY LITTLE OF over the fi rst three days I got to know him friend where to go to give it a try. And so he HIS PAST OTHER THAN THAT a little better. ended up standing outside my larder on a HE HAD BEEN IN THE RAF. A small animal vet before his retirement, sunny August morning. AND UNTIL DAVID FOUND HIS he had spent a lot of his life working with Throughout his story, my eyes were STALKING DIARY, THAT WAS death, and had never thought of it as a focused on the hill, looking for just the right ALL HE KNEW OF THE MAN” sporting occurrence until discovering shade of brown on the brown backdrop. the gamebook of his grandfather. He had A group of hinds milled into a far corrie, never met the man, and knew very little of his past other than that he had been in the RAF. He had been an aircraft engineer, half Scottish, smoked cigars and didn’t like religion. And until David found his stalking diary, that was all he knew of the man. After the war, his grandfather had spent two years every September on the high hills of the west coast, stalking with a group of friends. His gamebook contained a meticulous record of each day spent on the hill, whether he was shooting or observing.

Sam Thompson is a deer stalker who works with a number of estates across Scotland, predominantly in the Highlands. His work varies from guiding clients on trophy stalks to writing management plans, carrying out culls and trying

to solve environmental issues Glyn Satterley where deer play a key role. Photo: Photo:

12 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

12-13 stalking JH.indd 12 16/02/2017 15:43 FEATURE STALKING

idle as sheep in a barn. My heart raced at walked with the same stiff gait a cat does “... AFTER THREE DAYS OF the chance, for there is nothing fi ner than when it’s been lying down too long. Two NOTHING I WAS HOPING HE a man shooting his fi rst beast. With the hundred or so yards from them, we stopped WOULDN’T LOSE HIS NERVE AT binoculars on my face I started to form for another glass. THE LAST MOMENT” a plan, trying to second-guess the wind David crawled behind me and, in single that kept swirling from my right shoulder fi le, we edged closer to the herd. Our man onto my face. We talked it over a little, and had dried peat stuck to the long hairs charge. David’s approach was cautious, and I shifted the rifl e to the other shoulder under his chest and neck, making him it seemed to take a minute to sink in, before before starting the steep descent. look bigger than he really was. In other he sat on a tuft of grass and looked at the The wind changed, so my plans had to years it wouldn’t be long until his whole beast for a good long time. It was a very do the same, which added a few hundred body would be black as a winter night special moment, between a man and the yards onto the stalk. David stuck in close with peat, and his roar would make him animal that represented the grandfather he behind me, his feet followed mine through seem like the most unearthly being as he never knew. the deep black peat and over the rocks. We staggered and jagged his way around the As I worked the knife through the peat sat with our backs to a rock, and through rutting stands. But not for this beast this clotted hair of the beast’s underbelly, the the long glass we decided on a beast. He year, his chips are down. ripe scent of the gralloch soaked the air, and was lying on the far left, a heavy switch We stopped crawling at around 130 David watched on as the puddings spilled with one brow tine, chewing molinia grass yards from the stag. Down went the bipod onto the October heather. I explained the with long strokes. He would do just fi ne, I legs; up went the scope caps. I crawled job of gutting as I worked, but his thoughts thought, passing the tube and crook across backwards to allow David to get into a cold were not with me and the stag, and later, to David and giving him his fi rst close up clinch with the rifl e stock, and checked as we dragged the stag from the hill he look at the beast. His breathing quickened that he was happy with a thumbs up before confessed that they had been with his and he grinned at me. drawing myself up next to him and fi nding grandfather, and the connection he felt With 600 yards to go, we were doubled the beast in my binoculars. between them. ● over as we stalked down the boulder fi eld, “Whenever you’re ready, just behind the Read Sam’s blog at ardaleditch.wordpress. with our scent blown up behind us. The shoulder and half way up Sir.” com best stag in the group, an eleven-point The seconds seemed to turn into long

GAME SHOOTING AND FISHING beast with a neck to make an elephant hours as I waited for the muffl ed crack, but ® GAME SHOOTING AND FISHING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017 £5.50 proud, moved himself around the herd, the rifl e stayed silent. A hoody crow circled GAME SHOOTING AND FISHING ® DECEMBER/JANUARYDECEMBERER/JANUA 2016/17 £5.50 RY 20166//17 £5.50

0 The Leica Fieldsports 016 £5 5 196 2 Side-by-side ER /NOVEMB OCTOBER/NOVEMBERR/NOVEMBERR 20162016 £5.50£5.50 photographer THE Pages SUPERSTARS PERFECT rolling his head as he walked. We stopped high above us; I spotted him as I turned my Our biggest THE BEST OF BROWNING Greys issue ever of the year Pheasant WhichWh strain WIN INCREDIBLE PRIZESTHETHE GGAMEAME SHOTS WHO ich strain SHOTS W isis bbest?est? Galore MAKEMAKE IIT LOOK EASYHO T LOOK EASY WhyWhy our natived partridgesrtridges dependependg onon shootinshooting THE gundogNext purdey and waited a while, both glassing to see if head to see if David was alright. 10 yearsbreeding awards Ensuring a bright ThisThis yyearear’s Everything you wwinnersinners 28 bores future forneed our sportsto know can less f SmallS lll guns for mean more? tall pheasants How important is important is there was going to be a change of heart, His eyes were closed and his head SPORTING MEMORIES TOthe sizesizesize ofof of the the the bag? bag? bag? Simply the best ots dge sho LAST A LIFETIME PartridgePartri shoots The at home & abroad 10 Christmas issue but the deer stayed and we moved on. dipped from the stock. I waited a few YEAR ANNIVERSARY rotherfield WIN 3,000 saltwater revisited CARTRIDGES secrets SMALL BORES THE ULTIMATE FISHING WAGON AMERICAN WOODCOCK Wild birds and In our new A new fi shery in O 07/09/2016 16:25 sensational sport subscription draw 1 COVER Dec/JanFrench JH se Polynesia  O lect MJ PHEASTIVE QUIZ ch SPECIAL ISSUE osen.indd 1  O O WIN! A SWAROVSKI Z8 TROUT OF AFRICA

Once we were a bit closer, the rifl e came seconds before prodding him in the arm NOV JH FINAL Pheasant.indd 1 out from the slip and I loaded the magazine and trying the old thumbs up one more This story is reproduced with the with the lead-nosed cartridges marked time... after three days of nothing I was kind permission of Fieldsports Norma .270 Winchester. hoping he wouldn’t lose his nerve at the Magazine. Subscribe to Fieldsports Dispensing with the telescope and sticks, last moment. A brief smile was his only at www.thesportinglibrary.co.uk we crawled on over the hillocks of grass response, before blinking and settling into and use offer code CA17 at the and heather. The wind dropped to a breeze, the rifl e like a seasoned professional. checkout to get £5 off an annual but stayed just about right for our deer. The The shot was good, and the beast subscription (usual price £29.99). switch had got up to stretch himself, and dropped after a 30-yard death or glory

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 13

12-13 stalking JH.indd 13 16/02/2017 15:44 Turning the planet 14 ordinary into the SHOTGUN AND FIREARM LICENSING Landscapes Ltd extraordinary Expert advice from a specialist team of barristers The British Firearms Law Handbook is the key text for lawyers in this area WE WROTE IT

Supply & Installation We accept instructions direct from members of the public of Plastic Piling and businesses nationwide; from sports enthusiasts to Benefi ts of Plastic Piling: RFDs, across the full range of licensing matters, including • 100% Recycled Plastic variations and appeals. • Manufactured in the UK Providing bespoke advice in • Maintenance Free writing, in conference and • Does not rot or rust via telephone. • Lighter than Steel - Chambers of Timothy easier to handle Raggatt QC 4 King’s Bench Walk, and transport Temple, London, EC4Y 7DL

t: 01255 831660 If you need help, contact us: m: 07899901291 T: 020 7822 7000 e: [email protected] E: fi [email protected] www.planet14landscapes.co.uk W: www.barristersdirect.co.uk

OF THEFIRST SEASON SHOW

FAMILY FUN DAY OUT

HIRE AMS GH NOTTIN COUNTY SHOW Sat 13 - Sun 144 May 2016 ADULT ADVANCE £10

Newark Showground NG24 2NY Ticket Hotline: 01636 705796 (closes 5pm 5th May) www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com

p14_CA_Spring17.indd 14 17/02/2017 14:52 FEATURE NEW APPOINTMENTS

Here come the girls ➺ International fl y fi shing star SUE SHAWand former joint master of the Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase, POLLY PORTWIN, have joined the Countryside Alliance and outline their roles.

he CA has recently of Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland “I LOVE MEETING THE WOMEN appointed two new staff (CfR) retreats (see p18). I will attend all WHEN THEY ARRIVE ON THE members to enhance and scheduled weekends and be the main FRIDAY AND SEEING THE develop its work on two point of contact for all the applicants. VAST CHANGE IN THEM BY Tfronts. Sue Shaw joined in January to help “It will be my job to let applicants THE TIME WE SAY OUR develop our charitable fi shing projects, know if they have been successful in our FOND FAREWELLS ON Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland ballot and have, therefore, been invited SUNDAY AFTERNOON. IT’S and Fishing 4 Schools. At present she is onto one of our fl y fi shing therapy QUITE INCREDIBLE” focusing on delivering fi ve retreats for weekends. I am there to answer the many Casting for Recovery, and will also work questions that invariably come to mind as with Charles Jardine to help develop ladies prepare to join us. There are various support from The Countryside Alliance Fishing 4 Schools (see p23). Polly Portwin documents that need to be completed Foundation. In the early years we did joined in December as head of hunting, a and returned as we take great pride in everything – administration, transporting new role that will see her work alongside ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all the kit to the retreats in our own cars, hunts themselves, and also represent those women taking part. erecting the marquee and running the hunting in the media and at Parliament. “We already have a great team of fi shing. I can’t thank Orvis UK enough Both Sue and Polly perfectly encapsulate volunteers from the medical side for their support over the years aswell, our work — using education and along with fl y fi shing coaches, retreat as all lady participants are kitted out promotion to make the case for our way assistants and fi shing guides. Looking with Orvis all-weather gear, rods and of life. You will be able to meet Sue and to the future, I am keen to develop the tackle for the duration of the retreat. Sue Polly at a show near you soon. programme so that previous participants and I both worked full-time as well, and can remain involved. Whilst I can extol so CfR work was done in the evenings Sue Shaw, former fl y fi shing the virtues of CfR, I think these women and weekends — I’m still not sure how international, is the new projects fully understand the benefi ts of the we managed this, but we were like a co-ordinator for the Countryside programme and are more than happy to stick of rock with CfR running down the Alliance Foundation pass this on to the new participants when middle. I attended most of the retreats they arrive to instantly put them at ease. over the years and have met some “I will be at various fundraisers and wonderful, inspirational women during fl y fi shing and country shows in my that time and am truly honoured to think role, including the Great Yorkshire Show that the work we do has had such a and Countryfi le Live. I was recently at positive impact on their lives. the British Fly Fishing Fair International “Whenever I come home after a and we received a warm welcome from retreat I feel an overpowering sense of the fl y fi shing community who have achievement, which is so very rewarding. always been so good to us. At shows, I I love meeting the women when they look forward to speaking to potential arrive on the Friday and see the vast candidates and also those from the fl y change in them by the time we say our fi shing world who may wish to get fond farewells on Sunday afternoon. It’s involved, whether by tying fl ies for us or quite incredible and I can’t fi nd the word even coming on a retreat to guide one to adequately describe it but, believe of the lady participants. As the project me, the camaraderie is infectious and grows, all support is welcome, and we resonates throughout the celebration hope to roll out more and more retreats lunch. I feel so lucky to be able to play a each year. small part in making a positive difference Sue says: “I have taken up the new role of “The project started in 2006, when to someone’s life.” projects coordinator for The Countryside fellow England international (and double Find out more at: www. Alliance Foundation. My main role is to breast cancer survivor) Sue Hunter castingforrecovery.org.uk or contact cfr@ help with the running and administration and myself ran CfR, with fi nancial ca-foundation.org for more information.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 15

15 - 16 Sue and Polly RG.indd 15 17/02/2017 12:19 FEATURE NEW APPOINTMENTS

and wildlife management to as wide an “WE MAY NOT BE MARCHING Polly Portwin, former master of audience as possible. ON THE STREETS OF LONDON the Bicester with Whatton Chase Polly says: “As a farmer’s daughter, I’ve IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, is our new head of hunting. always understood life in the countryside BUT THAT DOES NOT MEAN and also took a keen interest in hunting, THERE IS NOT A LOT OF WORK riding to hounds from a very early age. GOING ON BEHIND THE SCENES I was a joint-master of the Bicester with THAT NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT.” Whaddon Chase for 11 seasons, during which time I served on the Masters of Foxhounds Association (MFHA) opportunity to meet those who support committee. In 2013, I took on the role of the CA and listen to their views. Out of hunting editor at Horse & Hound where the hunting season I will be representing I was responsible for the hunting content the CA at the various hound shows and and visited many packs across the attending puppy shows when possible. country and Ireland as a correspondent. On the issue of how you, the “This new role is a great opportunity to membership, can support the CA and further develop the campaign for hunting, Polly in their roles, Polly says: “It is vital a campaign with a reputation for being that members step up when asked to extremely vocal on hunting’s benefi ts, help, and pull together in whatever way

Sarah Farnsworth Photography www.sarahfarnsworth.co.uk Photography Farnsworth Sarah and strong in its support of those on they can to ensure the future of hunting. hunting’s front line. I hope to explore From the volunteers and unsung heroes Photo: Photo: different ways in which we can challenge within every pack of hounds, to those the Hunting Act and to provide better hunting hounds or drafting government support for the hunt staff who come up bills in case we get a change in the law, against the challenges the unworkable Act every bit of support for our cause is Polly Portwin became the CA’s head brings to their everyday lives. needed. We may not be marching on of hunting in December 2016. Head of “I believe it is vital to maintain the streets of London in the foreseeable hunting is a new role that involves liaising direct contact with the membership future, but that does not mean there is with hunts themselves, with politicians and hunting supporters. Hunting with not a lot of work going on behind the and the media in promoting hunting different packs of hounds is the perfect scenes that needs your support.”● Sarah Farnsworth Photography www.sarahfarnsworth.co.uk Photography Farnsworth Sarah Photo: Photo:

16 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

15 - 16 Sue and Polly RG.indd 16 17/02/2017 12:19 % OFF THE 25 G AT TO E P P U R E IC V E A S S • • Looking for game feeding equipment? • Automatic feeders & timers • Lamps & battery supplies Fred with Chudleigh • Remote camera systems EAST ANGLIAN GAME & COUNTRY FAIR With over 40 years • Fox traps & vermin controls experience in game • Drums for food & water IN ASSOCIATION WITH Eastern Daily Press keeping, ring & speak with Fred today. View online shop now!

BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY SETTING euston estate JUST OFF A11 AT THETFORD april 22nd & 23rd 2017 Hope to see you at

West of England Game Fair 18th & 19th March ADVANCE TICKET PRICES Highclere Country Show 28th & 29th April ADULT £14 (17+) CHILD £5 (5-16YRS) FAMILY £38 (2 ADULTS & 3 CHILDREN) Broadlands Country Show 30th April & 1st May BOOK ONLINE FREE DELIVERY on all automatic feeders & cameras Quote CA1 when ordering! WWW.UKGAMEFAIR.CO.UK

Tel: 01403 822471 Game Feeding Equipment is a trading division of SAVE MONEY - BOOK TICKETS BEFORE 17TH APRIL!!!!! Email: [email protected] Web: www.game-keepers.co.uk Rudgwick, West Sussex

We are now consigning for our forthcoming ENQUIRIES AND THE SPORTING SALE Sporting Sale. Items of interest include jewellery, APPOINTMENTS Tuesday 23 May silver, pictures, books, works of art, ceramics, 0131 240 0916 Edinburgh prints and practical items relating to the traditional [email protected] Entries now invited ÄLSKZWVY[ZVMO\U[PUNZOVV[PUNÄZOPUNYHJPUNHUK other outdoor country pursuits. Bonhams 22 Queen Street Edinburgh EH2 1JX

bonhams.com/sportingart

p17_CA_Spring17.indd 17 17/02/2017 15:02 FEATURE CASTING FOR RECOVERY

Casting for Recovery – the winning formula

➺ We rely on many people to make Casting for Recovery work. Here, our top fl y fi shing, counselling and medical experts reveal what makes a retreat swing

asting for Recovery UK I am Vee, and I am delighted to be a fl y with newly made friends – dare I interrupt & Ireland (CfR) uses casting instructor at the CfR retreats. and say more casting? We have lunch to counselling, medical support These weekend retreats provide fi t in somewhere, a bit of what fi sh eat and and fl y fi shing to great effect participants with a fantastic opportunity soon it’s tea time. When does the fi shing onC weekend retreats for ladies with breast to try out a sport they would probably take place? Sunday morning is when it all cancer. Here volunteers from those three never think of trying, without any pressure, happens and every lady is given a local disciplines, experienced counsellor Tina, in the company of other ladies. Most of fi shing guide to help her catch a fi sh. These top fl y casting instructor Vera and clinical the ladies who attend the retreats are guides are specially chosen for their kind nurse specialist Lottie, explain why their completely out of their comfort zone manner, plus they are all good anglers; talents all come together on retreat to when they arrive – they have usually but there is always a lot of apprehension. bring ladies with breast cancer a seen fi sh, most probably eaten fi sh, What will he be like? or Is my guide good memorable weekend. sometimes touched a fi sh, but never looking!?. It’s a bit like “Blind Date” and thought they would catch one – and quite a bit of teasing takes place but we all this without the need to touch any have a very scientifi c way of pairing a lady creepy crawlies. with a fi shing guide and that is where the At the retreats, once kitted out with mystique lies. outdoor clothing supplied by Orvis UK, the Off they go to fi sh, usually the ladies are ladies at least look like anglers and from this so involved with their casting, fi shing and moment the fun begins. There is always chatting with their guide they completely help on hand to make sure everyone enjoys lose track of time and with hoots and the whole experience from looking at the shrieks around the fi shery as trout are equipment, tying knots, and of course the caught. It’s great to see a huge change in casting. The casting is a great laugh because the ladies as their confi dence grows and it is a very different thing to anything they their only concern now is how to cook have ever done before and we generally, that trout they are taking home in the in a short space of time, see some amazing carrier bag. results. Sometimes we see the fl y line Fly fi shing gives you confi dence, Vera Carlson is an experienced forming spaghetti when things have a challenge, a new experience and an member of the Game Angling gone wrong, but who cares, we sort out amazing hobby with new friends. The Instructors Association (GAIA) who any tangles, laugh about it and try whole team at CFR ensures all ladies leads casting sessions on some of again. Sometimes there is more laughing have a superb memorable weekend at our retreats, often with her with than casting, but we will always ensure the a lovely hotel with amazing food and husband Bob. ladies have a good time. can go home with lots of unforgettable Coffee break, a little rest and chatter memories.

18 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

18 - 19 Casting For Recovery RG.indd 18 16/02/2017 11:42 FEATURE CASTING FOR RECOVERY

Saturday afternoon’s two-hour session participants become at ease with each is set aside for a group counselling session other and form new friendships, sharing and relaxation – these sessions are tailored experiences and laughter. to the requirements of the group. The We tailor the healthcare professional-led goal of the session is to share experience, group sessions to each group’s information strength, hope, concerns and feelings in and support needs; management of a confi dential setting – again no pressure, menopausal symptoms and lymphoedema we only ask ladies to share what they are popular subjects. The weekends provide Tina Cooke is a Member of the feel comfortable sharing. Then comes an opportunity to address some of the British Association of Counsellors the relaxation part of the section where issues related to breast cancer diagnosis and and Psychotherapists and runs hopefully ladies can unwind, chill and take treatment such as fatigue, confi dence, diet, the counselling side of many of some ‘me time’ – well deserved and hard to exercise, stress, relationships, and body our retreats. come by for most ladies! image. Warm-up exercises before the fl y Sunday morning has time set aside fi shing sessions are fun and tailored to a Tina writes: The retreats facilitate to allow everyone to refl ect upon their women’s specifi c needs as a result of their informal sessions allowing participants to weekend and what it has meant to them. cancer or its treatment. The fl y fi shing explore their own emotions and feelings. Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland guides are knowledgeable, supportive and The retreats allow ladies to fi nd their own offers a valuable source of support for enthusiastic, watching the ladies cheer each voice whilst being respectful of others. ladies having had, or going though, breast other on as they catch fi sh is one of my Alternatively, if ladies simply want to relax cancer. (May I add that retreats are set in favourite parts of the weekend. The fi nal and listen the choice fabulous surroundings and everyone on the three-course lunch of the weekend is theirs; as we always tell the ladies team is dedicated to making everyone as is held in a beautiful restaurant where when they arrive: “these retreats are all comfortable as possible) each participant is presented with a about you!” Bonds, friendships, connections and certifi cate during a moving ‘graduation’ Whilst it is true we are all unique and wonderful memories have been created ceremony and there is a strong feeling of have unique circumstances, hopefully though CFR – so what are you waiting for? team spirit and a sense of achievement throughout the weekend ladies will for everyone. come to realise none of us are alone in Charlotte Weston is a Clinical Working with CfR has inspired me to our struggles. Nurse Specialist (CNS) at The think of new ways to improve access to All of our participants are fully supported Royal Marsden NHS Foundation activities for all patients affected by breast throughout the weekend from the moment Trust, RMH. cancer. I am inspired by all the participants they arrive on the Friday afternoon to I have met and the staff who give their fi shing, lunch, and fond farewells on the time and resources to support this Sunday afternoon. special organisation. ● The Friday evening’s activities consist of a few ice breakers to help everyone relax and feel comfortable with all the JOIN US IN 2017 other participants on the retreat – we Our weekend retreats are run appreciate that everyone who comes along at some of the most beautiful may feel nervous about what they have let locations across the UK and themselves in for, but we soon try to put Ireland, and we are delighted to them at ease. Cate (my partner in crime) advertise the remaining retreats and I are always on hand throughout the for 2017. Ladies can apply to retreat if anyone feels the need for time attend at www.castingforrecovery. out or space to deal with any concerns org.uk and retreats will open to or issues. applications on a rolling basis. Please note that places on retreat Charlotte writes: As a breast oncology are allocated by ballot and are CNS I support patients from diagnosis subject to medical clearance. through treatment which can include Retreats in North Yorkshire surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and County Mayo have already endocrine therapy, and targeted therapies. closed to applications, but I became involved with CfR as it provides the following retreats may be a beautiful and unique opportunity for of interest: ladies affected by breast cancer to take July 21-23 – Kimbridge on the a step away from the pressures of their Test near Romsey in Hampshire daily lives and experience of cancer (open to applications) treatment. The retreats are exceptional September 22-24 – Forbes of quality, held in beautiful locations and Kingennie, Broughty Ferry, Angus staffed with expert support from hotel staff, October 20-22 – The Arundell fl y fi shing guides, counsellors and nurses. Arms, Lifton, Devon I have been struck by how quickly retreat

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 19

18 - 19 Casting For Recovery RG.indd 19 16/02/2017 11:42 FEATURE HUNTING

The QH Hunter

➺ A new hat, designed by the Quorn Hunt and CHARLES OWEN is bringing safety to the hunting fi eld this season.

radition dies very hard to 1799/1800. The Quorn has always offi cers, felt very strongly that they had a on the hunting fi elds attracted hard riding and stylish followers duty of care to provide the best possible in Leicestershire. It is a enjoying the thrill of riding to hounds headwear for their staff,” explains strength that has maintained over the best of High Leicestershire. Peter M. “The best way for this to TBritain’s hunts in fi ne heart and good In its hunting heyday the fi elds of happen was to set an example, and to fettle since the restrictions of the 2004 Leicestershire rivalled the Capital as encourage others to do so by setting Hunting Act. Part of this tradition is to a denizen of fashion. a practical example”. maintain the highest standards of dress This bastion of hunting tradition So armed with the idea of a safer sort and turnout, a mark of respect to the has recently been involved in a major of hat for the hunting fi eld Peter M. raised farmers and landowners who allow the initiative to encourage the hunting the issue with Charles Owen, one of the hunt access to their land. But another fraternity to think again before they major manufacturers of riding hats. The element of tradition has come under don traditional hunting headwear, and fi rm is acknowledged as being at the scrutiny. The top hats, bowler hats and instead consider changing to modern forefront of improving safety standards traditional hunting caps that are donned protective headwear. so it was an ideal fi t for the hunt looking for a day in the fi eld offer very little head The reason behind the initiative was for a modern solution. Technical expertise protection in the event of a fall when the tragic death of a well-known, local is all very well, but for the hat to hold following hounds. subscriber in a hunting accident. Peter sway when seen following hounds it was The Quorn Hunt is regarded as one of Collins, who has been the Quorn’s crucial that it looked the part, too. Luckily, the premier hunts in the country, if not professional huntsman for 14 years, Peter was on hand to provide extensive the world. It was founded by in 1696 was asked by his eight-year-old son, “Is design input. The result is a brand new by Mr Thomas Boothby of Tooley Park, your hat safe, Daddy?” As a result of the riding hat, called the QH Hunter. It is BSI Leicestershire, and has a colourful and innocent question Peter C. decided to kite marked with chin harness and has sporting history. Only two years after the discuss his concerns with the former been modelled on the traditional deep death of Thomas, Hugo Meynell, the father honorary secretary of the Quorn, crown cap favoured by most huntsmen, of foxhunting, rented Quorn Hall and Peter Morritt. masters and subscribers. became master of the hunt from 1753/4 “The Quorn Hunt, the committee and “I have been wearing the hat all season

20 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

20 - 21 Quorn Hunting Hat RG.indd 20 15/02/2017 09:39 FEATURE HUNTING

Quorn Huntsman Peter Collins models the QH Hunter in the fi eld and in kennels

and fi nd it extremely comfortable” beginning of the season!). Unfortunately, says Peter C. “There have been we all know how easy it is to have many favourable comments from a fall when out hunting. So if through our subscribers and from other the Quorn Hunt’s action in taking this huntsmen, too.” initiative we save one person from having The response to the Quorn Hunt’s a life changing accident, or worse, then initiative has been encouraging.“We have our efforts will have been worthwhile.” sold many hats to local subscribers, of “We also cannot thank the managing this hunt and neighbouring packs,” says director of Charles Owen enough for Peter M. “Quite a few have gone further becoming involved. What started off as afi eld and even overseas. The hats have an idea has become this season’s reality been bought by both modernists and largely due to their support.” dyed-in-the-wool traditionalists. They have Peter’s well-clad pate has been made the decision to ditch the top hat modelling the navy hat this season as the or traditional cap to wear something that Quorn Hunt staff traditionally wear navy fulfi ls all modern safety standards, yet as part of their dress. But the hat is also retains a certain style beloved by people suitable for other hunting countries as The hat is manufactured to who ride to hounds.” it comes in black, grey or brown velvet. the highest standard and is He says. “There have also been A dashing grey velvet has already been available in black, navy, grey numerous comments about how spotted with the Belvoir, and ladies have or brown velvet at a cost of comfortable the QH Hunter is (I often the choice of navy or black to match their £250. It is available to order had our old hunting hats cooking in hunt coats, which means adopting the from the Quorn Hunt, either the Aga trying to make them fi t at the QH Hunter look does not require a full directly online via the Quorn kit rethink. Although the hat is intended Hunt website or fi ttings may be “I HAVE BEEN WEARING THE for the hunting community there have arranged by appointment at the HAT ALL SEASON AND FIND IT been enquiries from the showing Quorn Hunt kennels – EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE.” fraternity and other pleasure riders www.quorn-hunt.co.uk who have made the decision to wear Telephone +44 (0)1162 596694 a safety hat. ●

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 21

20 - 21 Quorn Hunting Hat RG.indd 21 15/02/2017 09:39 The event tickets QH Hunter ON SALE NOW! www.badminton-horse.co.uk A traditionally styled safety riding hat, designed and available exclusively from the Quorn Hunt. It combines the style and elegance riders to hounds appreciate but also appeals to traditionalists in other equestrian disciplines, particularly showing and dressage.

JOIN US! for a celebration of top sport, country life and fabulous shopping in spectacular surroundings!

Manufactured by Charles Owen to the latest safety standards (kite marked CE VG1 01.040 2014-12) For information contact Peter Morritt T: 0116 2596694 The Mitsubishi Motors E: [email protected] BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS www.quorn-hunt.co.uk Wednesday 3rd - Sunday 7th May 2017

PREMIUM QUALITY OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS

www.radnoroak.co.uk 01544 260727

p22_CA_Spring17.indd 22 17/02/2017 15:06 FEATURE FISHING 4 SCHOOLS

Educating through Fishing ➺ CHARLES JARDINErefl ects on 10 exceptional years of his Fishing 4 Schools project and looks ahead to many more.

en years. Gosh! Just think, a A big undertaking but, we think, worth it. a ‘resonant’ team and belief and fi nesse decade of Fishing 4 Schools Perhaps the biggest departure from of a chairman. Sally Acloque is the (F4S) and thousands of our normal modus operandi happened embodiment of these virtues and young people, awards last year, with the creation of the Eastern graciously agreed to pull together a Tceremonies in Westminster, a reach that F4S group — offering the start of a more collection of coaches and well-known has driven our little initiative (and now autonomous approach to our way of colleagues in the Norfolk area, and now not so little) to every corner of England working. This makes absolute sense. chairs the eastern region with the sort and Wales and in between, a fi eld staff of With our growth has come the pressing of passion that burns. So last May, chief some 20 dedicated people, a few tears, need to reach regional schools and executive Tim Bonner and I, together with and many more smiles. It has, as they say, young people by coaches and assistants Sally and her team, had the huge pleasure been a journey. knowledgeable of that specifi c locale. By of announcing and launching the Norfolk- But what now? A bit of laurel resting creating these micro-initiatives this has Eastern F4S initiative in the Assembly perhaps. Not a bit,we are, as we approach made local funding viable, visible and Rooms, Norwich. Since that launch, open our next phase, venturing into whole new effective and, importantly, encouraged days have occurred in the form of specifi c areas of activity and continually fi nding and engaged support and reach within educational programmes crafted by the different approaches to what we do. the local community; a perfect scenario. team of Mike Smith, Jim Gill and John Over the past ten years we have strived Of course, to realise the potential of Armstrong. Strong relations with local to be relevant. Vital for you vital for us. this slight, but unquestionably sensible press and media have been forged and F4S must never be seen as tokenism. F4S departure from the norm, you do have to local businesses have been enthusiastic must have a real and tangible bearing and have a verve and unbelievable drive of about being part of the process. Vitally, bring meaning to young people’s lives. It has: It does. We want to go further. So, with a new logo and re-branding we embrace this new period, offering far more educational worth to young people. The programme now offers the Angling Trust CAST awards, a three tier platform of basic learning that can span all ages and be pitched accordingly, offering a really good grounding in the sport and basic biology. And for the older age groups we will be increasingly offering The AIMS award, also from the Angling Trust, but this time a bona fi de module designed around angling and the environment, offering students credits towards a GCSE after 23 learning hours.

Charles Jardine is the founding Director of Fishing 4 Schools as well as a celebrated angling legend, author, artist and cook. His energy and enthusiasm know no bounds.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 23

23 - 24 Fishing 4 Schools RG.indd 23 16/02/2017 10:43 FEATUREFEATURE FISHINGFISHING 4 SSCHOOLSCHOOLS

though, schools throughout the area brings a balance of individuality and skill “SALLY ACLOQUE GRACIOUSLY have been reached in a creative, joined- that is both breathtaking and brilliant. AGREED TO PULL TOGETHER A up and meaningful way. It has been an I can promise you, we have the best in COLLECTION OF COACHES AND unprecedented success. the business. WELL-KNOWN COLLEAGUES We want to do more; more regions, The ‘trick’ is fi nding others. It is not a IN THE NORFOLK AREA, AND more reach, more regional-based county calling for everyone. Fishing prowess is a NOW CHAIRS THE EASTERN initiatives. We shall. Of course, resource, mere fraction of what a coach brings to REGION WITH THE SORT OF that Achilles heel for any growing these young peoples’ lives. PASSION THAT BURNS.” organisation, is a limiting factor and But of course, F4S is not just about a constant consideration, both fi nancial young people with ‘diffi culties.’ We must and human. not fall into the trap of denying our a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), comes with “Resource” and by that, I mean the beautiful sport to a small sector. We must huge responsibility and a need for deep people that drive this rather amazing be open for business to all young people, understanding of the more sensitive little initiative ever further, is a key from all strata of society. areas of our young society. At no point factor in our delivery. The right choice of This coming year will see a further do we shrink from our responsibility to personnel is crucial to our success — and departure for F4S as we start to engage be safe, accredited and the best that we what is more, it is not a role for everyone. increasingly with young people from all possibly can be. I am exceedingly proud The ability to reach, engage, enthuse, areas in the slightly younger age group of to be able to say that through our robust nurture and teach young people who years 4, 5 and 6. This sector of the school policies and stringent measures of safety, have often not enjoyed the greatest of community is not only immense fun to and our acknowledged leadership in our young lives, is a ‘calling,’ not just a fl eeting work with but uplifting and a veritable fi eld, that we sit with the Angling Trust role. In some instances, a coach might sponge for angling information. From on the Safeguarding Children committee have to cope with threatening behaviour, bugs to painting, to fi shing and cooking, to shape angling into a very safe future. have a pretty good understanding of the the young enthusiasm is just uplifting We should be proud of that alone. In vernacular (they will be hearing it a lot) and invigorating. reality it is just a segment of the jigsaw of and see these wonderful young people I must also mention the benefi ts that who we are; a complex jigsaw of various not as hard-cases that are streetwise, ill the programme brings in terms of mental wonderful pieces that sit comfortably disciplined, irreverent or lacking in a few health. Dealing with some sectors of our together to form a complete picture of ‘social graces’, but as fragile, vulnerable society, as we do, takes us right into the angling through education. young people, often with a story to tell areas which the Prime Minster, Theresa Just think, 10 years ago it started with that would pale our worst nightmare into May, has highlighted in speeches recently. one school.● insignifi cance. Our coaches must listen, Angling is a door to quiet, rejuvenating be subtle in their approach of knowing calm in many peoples’ lives and is a If you know of a school that may when to be fi rm or kind, talkative or quiet known aid to those suffering from PTSD like to run a Fishing 4 Schools — before any of their undoubted skills and other confl ict injuries. We aim to course, please get in touch with of coaching. Our coaches are special, explore this area in the months ahead. Catrin on catrin@ca-foundation. very special indeed. Amidst our disparate Naturally all of what we do, from org or call 0207 840 9270 team, we have genius. Each team member young people in Year 4 to a teenager in

24 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

23 - 24 Fishing 4 Schools RG.indd 24 16/02/2017 10:44 PURE COTTON DRILL JEANS

ONLY £35 or 2 for £60 + £5 p&p

EĂǀLJ

DƵƐƚĂƌĚ

dĂŶ

^ƚŽŶĞ

ƌŝĐŬ

WŝŶĞ

tĂŝƐƚ͗ϯϮϯϰϯϲϯϴ ϰϬϰϮϰϰϰϲ ϰϴϱϬϱϮ >ĞŐ͗ ϮϴϯϬϯϮϯϰ ŽĚĞ͗ Ddϭϴ

Special Offer BUY 2 SAVE £10

The durable cotton fabric is rugged, + Free Returns practical and wonderfully soft. YƵŽƚĞ 19J06 Brick, Mustard or Pine to stand out from the crowd, Stone, Tan or Navy - 100% Cotton drill for understated style. Flat front pure - 5 Tough, deep, riveted pockets cotton with straight leg, belt loops - Free Returns Service and and tough YKK metal fly zip. Money Back Guarantee* TO ORDER - YhKdϭϵ:Ϭϲ ƉĞƚĞƌĐŚƌŝƐƚŝĂŶ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬͬĐĂũ ϬϭϮϳϯϰϵϯϯϵϯ DŽŶͲ^ƵŶϴĂŵͲϭϬƉŵ

ϮϱDĂĐŬůĞLJƐƚĂƚĞ͕,ĞŶĮĞůĚZŽĂĚ͕^ŵĂůůŽůĞ͕tĞƐƚ^ƵƐƐĞdž͕EϱϵyZ ŝǀŝƐŝŽŶŽĨ,ŝůůƐŽĨƌĂŵůĞLJ>ƚĚŽZĞŐEŽϬϰϳϲϳϴϬϮ *^ƵďũĞĐƚƚŽŝƚĞŵƐďĞŝŶŐŝŶƉĞƌĨĞĐƚĐŽŶĚŝƟŽŶ͕ǁŝƚŚƚŚĞŝƌŽƌŝŐŝŶĂůƉĂĐŬĂŐŝŶŐĂŶĚƌĞƚƵƌŶĞĚǁŝƚŚŝŶϮϴĚĂLJƐ͘ &ƌĞĞƌĞƚƵƌŶƐǁŝƚŚŝŶh<ŽŶůLJ͘

p25_CA_Spring17.indd 25 17/02/2017 15:09 FEATURE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE AWARDS The best of the best ➺ Countryside Alliance director for Wales, RACHEL EVANS, introduces the Welsh Rural Oscars Champions, chosen from the cream of Welsh rural business.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WWW.ANDERSONPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

aving driven hundreds From thousands of nominations, the following have been chosen to represent Wales at of miles, met dozens of the Countryside Alliance Awards reception, to be held at the House of Lords on March inspiring and motivated 22nd. Good luck to all! rural buisnessmen and women,H and consulted with my esteemed Local Food Champion judging panel, I was delighted when the Countryside Alliance Awards reception at Pen-min-Cae Welsh Black Beef and Lamb, Gellynen Lodge, Cwmbach, Builth the Pierhead, Cardiff Bay, fi nally arrived Wells, Powys LD2 3RP. and I could reveal our worthy Champions. Our Awards, nicknamed the Rural Oscars, This farming family enterprise pride are public-nomination-led across several themselves on selling only their own categories and are designed to celebrate produced Welsh beef and lamb. Familiar faces on the show circuit to many I am and offer a voice to our rural businesses sure, the Nixon Family cook up fabulous and communities. I was grateful to leader home-reared meat joints and burgers of the House and chief whip, Jane Hutt, made by the family. Full traceability of for doing the honours and presenting the the livestock, highlighted by photos on the trade stand of farming through the prizes at the reception. The Minister told year gives consumers confi dence in their The Nixon family with Jane Hutt AM the reception: “For over 10 years, these produce and encourages them to ask awards have highlighted and celebrated questions about agriculture, which is War! I am delighted to award the top- rural businesses across Wales. It is always welcomed! The mail order side of spot of the local food category to the important that we recognise the crucial the business grows daily as customers deserving Nixon family. from far and wide buy with ease knowing role played by rural businesses in Wales exactly where their meat comes from. and champion the ongoing growth and Popular amongst the locals and celebrity Runner up: Caroline Dawson of improvement of our rural economy. followers alike, it has been said by one Fodder in the Field, from North “There is currently some uncertainty customer that her mother hasn’t tasted Wales. www.fodderinthefi eld.co.uk meat as good as theirs, this side of the surrounding the Welsh economy following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union. It is, therefore, Butcher Champion more important than ever that the rural economy remains resilient and we Edwards of Conwy, High St, Conwy LL32 8DE. www.edwardsofconwy.co.uk maximise and manage the opportunities to ensure long-term success. The The winner of this category is a farmer’s Welsh Government is fully behind son and butcher who has been in the trade rural businesses in Wales and I would for over 30 years, carrying with him the same farm supplier of beef and lamb for urge all businesses to take advantage the shop. Opening his fi rst shop at 21 years of the support available. Our Rural of age, Ieuan Edwards now employs over Development Programme offers a range 75 staff at both the shop and factory unit, of opportunities to support businesses, having developed his own brand Edwards organisations and communities of Conwy and now trades with some of the biggest names in supermarkets. He throughout rural Wales.” absolutely refuses to change the recipe I would also thank the evening’s that delivers quality and consistency. The sponsors, Assembly Members Paul Davies, products are now a familiar household Welsh Conservatives, Simon Thomas Plaid name from here to Hong Kong. A huge selection of both un-cooked and cooked Cymru and Neil Hamilton, UKIP. meat and Welsh produce is displayed to perfection at their shop in Conwy, with beef Ieuan Edwards with Jane Hutt AM and lamb hung behind the glass frames Rachel Evans has for all to see. A butcher’s block in the front been Director for Wales for window gives live displays of butchery and Runner up: Shan and Geraint Bowen of nine years. She has a customers can see fi rst-hand this age-old background in farming and skill. A true ambassador for butchery for Bethesda Farm Shop in Pembrokeshire. showing Welsh cobs. Welsh produce and Wales. www.bethesdafarmshop.co.uk

26 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

26-27 Rural oscars JH copy.indd 26 16/02/2017 15:58 FEATURE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE AWARDS

Hanson Hide is a by-product from their Farm Enterprise Champion own cattle and Hayley takes orders from Hayley Hanson www.hayleyhanson.co.uk farmers and producers too. Show winning hides from fatstock shows have made This one-woman enterprise has evolved their way to Hayley’s farm in Breconshire from her sheer love of cattle and farming, where she transforms them in to all kinds but particularly her strong feelings that of goods from footstools to handbags, every part of the beast can be used. Hayley cuffl inks and leather-bound hip-fl asks. It’s a lengthy process taking over 12 months to complete, and great care is taken to ensure that the hides are kept in good order and transformed in to keepsakes that will last for generations. A recent contract selling to a hotel in New York has given this small farm enterprise a signifi cant boost, thus Jane Hutt AM with the providing support for the farm income and Pembrokeshire Falconry team a defi nite future for Hayley Hanson Hide. I think it only right that I quote Hayley’s Tourism Champion words from her entry to the competition “I will always be a cattle farmer. Aside Pembrokeshire Falconry, Picton Castle from my family it’s my one big love”. & Gardens, Haverfordwest SA62 4AS. These cows have put a roof over our heads www.pembrokeshire-falconry.co.uk and provided us with a home — I have so much respect for the cattle. I need to The winning enterprise in this category secure the future of the farm for myself has been providing unique experiences and my children, not only to be viable, for tourists to Wales since 2004, but profi table”. welcoming hundreds of visitors from over 15 countries in 2016 alone. The unique offering in Pembrokeshire to Runner up: Rob Morgan and Lloyd of meet and fl y birds of prey has been Gower Fresh Christmas Trees. recognised by neighbouring County Carmarthenshire, and, from 2017, www.swansea-winter-wonderland.co.uk Hayley Hanson with Jane Hutt AM Pembrokeshire Falconry have been chosen to set up the fi rst British Bird of Prey Centre at the National Botanical Gardens of Wales. They will run this alongside an already well established tourist attraction at Picton Castle and are all set to welcome thousands more visitors to the world of birds of prey. I warmly congratulate Alex and Emma Hill of Pembrokeshire falconry as the winners of this category.

Runner up: Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill, Gower, Swansea, SA3 2EH www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

The Pennard Stores team with Jane Hutt AM

Post Offi ce along with its two members Village Shop and Post of staff when the Post Offi ce closed. Offi ce Champion Local artists’ work decorate the walls Pennard Stores, Southgate, Gower, and they have recently purchased the Swansea SA3 2DH. run-down council facilities next door, giving them a total refurb and removing The winning village shop and post offi ce the eyesore of this popular, beautiful who will represent Wales at the House of part of the Gower. Pennard Stores on Lords is situated in a small village, with a the tip of the Gower Peninsula is the few more hamlets scattered in between, heartbeat of the community and I am on the edge of the Gower. Since Jodi very pleased indeed to be able to crown and Jamie Francis took on the family them as our Champions. business, they have worked tirelessly to Runner up: Charlotte Christie and David move forward with the times and explored The Champions will now represent new opportunities for the business. They Evans of Llanwrtyd Wells Auto Services Wales at the British fi nal in London opened a café and ice cream parlour to and post offi ce Carmarthenshire. run alongside the shop and rescued the on March 22.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 27

26-27 Rural oscars JH copy.indd 27 16/02/2017 15:58 FEATURE EDUCATION Bringing the countryside to town

➺ LIAM STOKES commitment to education takes him to a range of locations, both rural and urban.

n January, this year, the manager. And what a farm he gets to cones, and explain why they made the Countryside Alliance’s Campaign manage. The news crew and I were soon best fi relighters. And they were all calm, for Shooting took me to two bundled into a quad trailer and were respectful and focussed on the tasks they unusually urban locales. To be fair, being whisked across the 120 acres had been given. Having been trusted Ithe majority of my work takes place in of marshland the school rents from to handle sharp tools, fi re and guns the Westminster and Cardiff, but when the council, hearing about the sheep, children were determined to prove I get to go on the road I’m much more chickens, goats and water buffalo themselves worthy of the responsibility. likely to end up in a Forest-in-Teesdale the pupils handle as part of their I was blown away to see such maturity in than anywhere metropolitan. everyday education. such young children. Two very different invitations Out in the fi eld children were up to all It was brilliant stuff, but what was bucked this trend. First I was asked to sorts; over here was fi re-starting, javelin- doubly remarkable was that these pupils give a talk at a meeting of the Tamar making and shelter-building. Over there, were nearly all from an Eastbourne Valley Association for Shooting and pupils were dressing rabbits, pigeons, council estate that we could actually Conservation (TVASC), where I explained woodcock and duck, taking them from see from the marsh. These were urban how the Alliance operates as a political fur and feather straight to the pan and kids getting a thoroughly rural learning and public voice for shooting and took onto the plate. And around the corner, experience. You could practically feel the questions on what threats are coming safely and expertly arranged, was our perceived town/country divide melting over the horizon. The meeting took place team from Normanhurst teaching two away, which reminded me of a question in the heart of Plymouth, which itself lucky children to shoot. I had been asked a few days earlier in sits in the middle of the Association’s I have been doing this job long Plymouth. A TVASC member wanted to shooting permissions. enough to wait for the Channel 4 know whether we were too quick to Then a few days later I was in report to appear before declaring it a turn every controversial countryside Eastbourne at West Rise Junior School, success, but they can’t fail to have been management issue into a clash between where the Alliance had put on shooting impressed by what they saw. They asked ignorant townies and knowledgeable, lessons in conjunction with the local understandable questions about whether idealised country dwellers. He pointed Normanhurst Clay Pigeon Shooting this sort of thing was appropriate for out that many keen game shots live in Centre as part of an outdoor activity day. 10-year-old children, whether it was safe suburban semis, while rural properties I went along because both (Channel 4 and what they were learning from it. I are increasingly snapped up by people News) and (Fieldsports TV) were turning often say that the role of the Countryside who are as likely to complain about farm up to fi lm the day and wanted to ask Alliance is to be the public and political smells than they are to get involved with questions about why schoolchildren voice of the countryside, and I had my their local shoot. should be handling shotguns. chance to say my piece to the camera, It’s a good point, and one that felt It was a bright, icy morning in East but it wasn’t my voice that laid the particularly poignant in Eastbourne. Being Sussex when we all converged on West journalist’s concerns to rest. The children part of the countryside community isn’t Rise, a perfect morning for fi lming. The who were shooting explained that they about living in it, or being brought up news crew and I were greeted by Mike had learned that if you keep trying, you in it, although people so-blessed have Fairclough, the now-famous ‘hunky get a bit better every time. The children a unique and invaluable perspective. headmaster’ who bestrides the school in preparing the wild meat had learned Being part of the countryside community a bear fur coat, and his partner in crime about the ecology of the birds they is a state of mind, a shared love of Alex Richards, the former gamekeeper were handling and the need to respect our countryside, a desire to actively who now operates as the school’s farm and care about where your food comes participate in it rather than simply look at from. The children making fi re could it, and a determination to understand and identify silver birch bark and douglas fi r protect it. What West Rise Junior School is Liam Stokes is Head doing is welcoming more people into our of Shooting Campaigns at community, irrespective of where their the Countryside Alliance. A parents live or what they do for a living. Nuffi eld scholar and former lecturer in countryside and So let’s have no more talk of ignorant wildlife management at townies, and more of the West Rise Wiltshire College Lackham, he attitude. We best protect the countryside is passionate about enthusing community not by narrowly defi ning it, the next generation. but by seeking to grow it. ●

28 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

28 Liam Stokes RG.indd 28 20/02/2017 09:12 THE KENILWORTH SHOW

Registered Charity 1164842 CAR PARK 1, STONELEIGH PARK,

KENILWORTH, WARWICKSHIRE, CV8 2LZ

SATURDAY 10th June 2017 74th Annual Show Ref: BCT Ref: DTSB Livestock, Equestrian, Dog & Homecraft Competitions

Main Ring Attractions, Shopping Marquee, Countryside Area, Trade Stands and the very best of regional food and drink. FOR DETAILS CONTACT THE SECRETARY -

LIZZ CLARKE, 16 EASENHALL ROAD, HARBOROUGH MAGNA, RUGBY, CV23 0HU Tel: 01788 833910 / 07904 581835 E-mail: [email protected] www.kenilworthshow.co.uk

Ref: ADC Ref: HAB TREAT YOUR FEET TO GUARANTEED WATERPROOF ALL-DAY COMFORT ❉ AllAll purpose, all terrain, 100100%% wwaterproof, work and leisure boot ❉ PaddedPadded jejersey cotton lining for dry comfort ❉ UnderarchUnderarc reinforcement for rough terrain ❉ CushionedCu lining for all day comfort Do you have a copy of our 80 page 2017 ❉ Washable and quick drying. brochure? NO?? TheThe bootboo that thinks it’s a welly! Contact us today and we’ll send you one. Price: £59.99 Telephone order line: Call 01473 328272 07974 977112 [email protected] or order securely online at: www.schsupplies.co.uk www.thedrybootcompany.comwww thedrybootco

THE COUNTRYMAN’S SUBSCRIBE THE NATIONAL COUNTRYSPORTS NEWSPAPER

CAMROSA OINTMENT 2017 for animals with sore, broken & itchy skin TODAY TH TH 28  30 JULY 20177 WEEKLY Hatfield House, Hertfordshiree 08440808444444 77677776777766 7 777777 TICKETSC thegamefair.orgg NOW 0844 776 7777 +44(0)1892 783240 www.camrosa.co.uk ON SALE Bushingg dogs FEBRUARY 22 2017 PRICES START The pros and cons of using WIN terriers inside this week... A KNIVEGG TICKETS TO THE PREMIUM SKINNER 18 FIVE PAIRS SHOOTING RRP FROM AS TO GIVE RRP £51.95 Keeper's days £22 AWAY! to see out the season

LITTLE AS CANINE BEHAVIOUR KEEPING FERRETS – Dealing with a a simple convalescent business dog – part one TELEPHONE FISHING MONTHLY FoxFoxo shooting NEW LINES ARE OPEN KINDLY SPONSORED BY questions monthly COLUMN & answers 01752 762990 MON-FRI- 9am-5pm Basic model lurcher – £25 FEBRUARY 22 2017 £2.20 the Irish Terrier x Whippet SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT THE NATIONAL COUNTRYSPORTS THE NEWSPAPER www.countrymansweekly.com FOR 13 ISSUES SIMON EVERETT COUNTRYMAN'S WEEKLY www.countrymansweekly.com

YES! I would like to subscribe to The Countryman's Weekly for 13 issues at £25 (UK only) PLEASE SEND THIS FORM ALONG (Please make cheques/postal orders payable to The Countryman's Weekly) WITH YOUR PAYMENT TO: PLEASE SEND PAPERS TO: THE COUNTRYMAN'S NAME: ______WEEKLY, PO BOX 258, ADDRESS: ______PLYMOUTH, ______DEVON, PL5 9AE ______PLEASE NOTE: OTHER SUBSCRIPTION POSTCODE: ______TELEPHONE: ______OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE, PLEASE PHONE EMAIL: ______OR VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

p29_CA_Spring17.indd 29 17/02/2017 16:04 FEATURE BOOKS “....foxhunting we shall never see again” ➺ MICHAEL CLAYTON has probably forgotten more about hunting than many of us will ever know, and his memoirs provide a window into his exceptional life on the hunting fi eld.

rom a career on Fleet Street and changed mounts during the day. “The arrival and departure of scores and the BBC to two decades The Quorn was unusual in that most of lorries bringing horses to the second as editor of Horse & Hound, subscribers lived outside the hunting horses meets half-way through the day, Michael Clayton has also country, and this included two of its and the throngs of car followers all writtenF over 20 books on equestrianism three masters. day, needed a miracle of rural traffi c and hunting. He is a foremost expert and “This was a long-standing tradition in management to avoid jams in country passionate ambassador for hunting, and the Quorn country accepted by most of lanes, but in the 1960s they were still the following is an extract from his new the farmers who afforded the mounted tolerated by most of the local community. autobiography, The Ride of My Life,which fi eld the privilege of riding over their Avoiding holding up local traffi c became is available now. wonderful old turf and cut-and-laid fences. an increasing headache later. From Chapter Nine, Discovering the In return the Quorn went to exceptional “The dress code in the mounted fi eld Shires, Michael writes: “The Quorn in the lengths to entertain and reward farmers was still traditional: male subscribers early 1970s was still hunting in a manner as much as possible, with annual dinners, in top hats, red or black coats, white reminiscent of foxhunting’s golden years: free tickets to point-to-points and free breeches and top boots with spurs. A a sharp bitch pack hunted on Mondays hunting for themselves and their families few men still sported white buckskin and Fridays on the light-going of High if their land was crossed by the Hunt. breeches on wet days, and had white Leicestershire, and a doghound pack The Chase had long added extra value to ‘champagne’ tops to their boots. Quorn hunted westwards in the woodlands property and land in Leicestershire, and farmers wore black coats and caps with of Charnwood Forest and beyond on in the past provided farmers with a ready fawn breeches. Most lady subscribers Tuesdays and Saturdays. The Quorn market for locally grown horse-fodder, breached tradition by wearing dark blue hounds were of the most modern stamp, plus many jobs in livery and dealing yards. hunt coats with matching caps, instead of at that time bred under the direction of “I noted the Quorn fi eld was an traditional bowlers and black coats; some none other than Capt. Ronnie Wallace. entertaining mix of personalities, all had shiny black tops on their plain boots. It was somewhat like having Harrods in out to enjoy themselves and warmly “A few ladies persisted in riding side- to do the furniture, except that Wallace welcoming to a newcomer, which was saddle, wearing top hats and habits, none provided free after-service – by judging fi tting since most were themselves more elegant than Venetia Barker, blonde the annual puppy show to check on the ‘carpet-baggers’ (visitors seeking a good wife of joint master, Capt. Fred Barker. new entry. country to ride). They ranged widely No one went better side-saddle than the “The Quorn’s best country north across English society from High Court more mature Lady Margaret Fortescue, and south of Melton Mowbray was still judges to bookmakers. There were some a hereditary West Country landowner mainly grassland, but the march of arable notably pretty girls in the fi eld, wearing who came up from her home near farming was quickening. I was to enjoy beautifully tailored breeches and coats Barnstable to take a hunting box each Leicestershire in a condition ideal for and riding quality horses. season in the Quorn country. She was “foxhunting we shall never see again”. “In a Shires mounted fi eld there was noted for affecting a certain parsimony by Today’s four-lane A46 main road scything always someone interesting to talk remarking well after the opening meet: ‘I through the Monday country was a lesser to, and ripples of laughter were not haven’t paid my subscription yet; I shall main road which the Quorn fi eld often infrequent. One young lady, I was told, wait to see if I am still enjoying myself.’ crossed by leaping rails or hedges from was mortifi ed to fi nd she had arrived with She invariably did so, and her hunting adjoining fi elds. I was there when lorry two left riding boots, but put up with career was only halted by a disastrous fall drivers halted on the A46 by the Hunt the excruciating pain of wearing both in with the Belvoir in the mid-1980s”. ● were astonished to note the rider holding order not to miss her day’s hunting in the up the traffi c was Prince Charles. Shire of Shires. Most of the mounted fi eld on the “Aside from the gaiety were the The Ride of my Life by Michael Clayton fashionable Mondays and Fridays in the underlying risks attending a sport is available in hardback now. The book best country each had two horses out, involving steering more than half a ton of is published by Merlin Unwin and horse over fences, surrounded by many is priced at £20, but CA members can Michael Clayton has had others likely to barge into you, or bring buy the book for £15 each plus £3.50 an illustrious career as a Fleet Street journalist and author of over you down. Amid the crush in a Quorn p&p. To take advantage of this offer 20 books. He has edited Horse & gateway there were some wry smiles please call 01584 877456 and quote Hound and is an eloquent advocate when someone remarked: ‘So nice to get Countryside Alliance. for hunting. away from the crowds in London.’

30 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

30 CA Books AS.indd 30 16/02/2017 11:18 The Electric Fencing Specialists

KEEP PREDATORS KEEP ANIMALS OUT IN • Fox Busting Netting Kits • Horse Kits - • Poultry Netting Kits Permanent & Temporary • Protection from Badgers & • Poultry Netting Rabbits • Pig Systems • Garden & Pond Protection • Dog & Cat Containment • Bowling Green & Sports Systems Field Protection • Cattle Fencing • Sheep Three Reel Systems

CALL 01620 860 058 [email protected] www.electricfencing.co.uk NO MORE PAIN FOR LINDA!

he pain in Linda Hallam’s back and shoulders was so bad that the only way she could get out of bed was by rolling out onto her knees. T She says, “I was only 48 but I felt like an old woman. Working in catering and being married to a farmer, I was fi nding life really diffi cult. I decided to try a Biofl ow magnetic therapy bracelet and couldn’t believe the difference it made. After 2 weeks I was a different woman. The pain had decreased considerably and I could get out of bed normally.

My husband, Dave was so impressed by the change in me that he bought a Biofl ow wristband for himself to help with the arthritis in his knees and elbows. Now neither of us would be without our Biofl ows and we’ve recommended them to lots of our friends and family.

Over 3,000,000 people and animals in Britain are wearing Biofl ow magnetic therapy products to help with a wide variety of problems.

For further information contact: Jenny Ryan 0114 2307844; 07817671259 16 Den Bank Crescent, Sheffi eld, S Yorks S10 5PD [email protected] www.magneticpower4u.net

p31_CA_Spring17.indd 31 17/02/2017 15:25 al fee images - bespoke hand crafted priest’s

An essential piece of kit for any budding or experienced gun dogg handler is a priest. There are 9 designs across 4 ranges available to make your priest truly unique including genuine Swarovski crystal ends, each priest stained to the colour of your choice, is sealed with 2 coats of Tung Oil for long hard wearing protection.

RecommendedR and endorsed by 121 year old Josh Carter. At the age ofo 11, possibly the youngest ever winner of an All Aged Field Trial event in the UK and overall winner of the Kennel Club young handler category at Chatsworth 2015.

Each priest is individually handmade from top quality North American Ash in the heart of 1066 country.

al fee images - unique and stunning bespoke gifts

Treat yourself to a bespoke unique gift - select from our own extensive range of stock images or send me your own high res image and transform your image into something a little bit special - like a pair of cuffl inks, laser engraved coat & lead rack, personalised hip fl ask, clock or a hot water bottle cover to name just a selection of an array of unique gifts.

Visit www.alfeeimages.co.uk for more information or contact alfee images on 07979 218724 or by email at [email protected]

Alan Woodward3.indd 1 08/09/2016 16:22 FEATURE VIEWPOINT

The anti-social face of social media

➺ JIM BARRINGTONexamines the worrying trend for ‘trolling’ on social media

nless you were drunk or those who prefer to engage in this form those who claim to oppose violence spoiling for a fi ght – or of abuse is the state of mind of their inevitably encourage others to do both – it is highly unlikely target. During the period my mother their dirty work. For a commercial that you would make was dying, I was receiving disgusting concern, such as a pub or hotel, negative inflU ammatory comments in a face-to-face and sometimes threatening tweets and comments on the internet can cause meeting with strangers. Now, though, blog comments from people totally fi nancial loss. Threats to boycott a with the numerous forms of social unknown to me. The grieving families business or create some other diffi culty media readily available to anyone with of Gems McCormick and nine-year-old for those establishments that might host a phone or a laptop, things have Bonnie Armitage, both tragically killed a hunt meet or associated event must be changed dramatically. in hunting accidents, were subjected to taken seriously. It’s not surprising that in People involved in fi eldsports, vicious, gloating tweets from people who certain cases these intimidation tactics particularly those supporting hunting claim to be compassionate; their self- work and they will continue to do so with hounds, have long faced accusations satisfaction defl ated only when they were while little or nothing is done to curb it. of cruelty, barbarism and bloodlust. tracked down and exposed in the press. New Crown Prosecution Service As time went on, even those insults I can now well understand how a young guidelines are catching up with this seemed to lose their strength and, having person, or indeed anyone at a particularly modern form of communication and created an atmosphere in which almost low ebb, may not be able to cope with its abuses and those who are severely any offensive, untruthful or libellous a similar onslaught. troubled by social media trolls should statement is thought warranted, hunting The fact that many of these ‘keyboard study them carefully with a view folk are now commonly referred to as activists’ are anonymous – or so they to contacting the police if a line of animal haters and likened to rapists, think – only adds to their bravado. Indeed, acceptability is crossed. Evidence will be murderers and paedophiles. Perhaps those who consider themselves ‘activists’ needed for a prosecution and through the view held by many over the years should re-think the term, as lying in bed the simple use of a ‘screen-print’ button to simply ignore such outlandish fi ring off vitriolic comments about those on every computer, a tweet or any other accusations has encouraged a greater with whom they disagree can hardly be social media comment can be captured, degree of opprobrium, but whatever the described as ‘activism’. no matter how quickly it might be case, this is no way for any campaign to The problems are exacerbated by those deleted by the abuser after having second be conducted and says far more about the who appear to live their lives via social thoughts (ask a young relative how to attackers than those attacked. media. Speak only to like-minded users do this if you feel it is beyond your Anyone who uses Twitter will and you will think everyone sees things computer skills!). immediately recognise the type of verbal your way; believe ‘facts’ that are reported As far as those campaigning for repeal assaults used by people who are obsessed by those same people and the line of the Hunting Act are concerned, the about particular issues. Some aspects of between fake news and reality quickly insults, slurs and accusations mean social media – perhaps better described dissolves. How many people now believe just one thing – opponents are angry as unsocial media – allow total strangers 400,000 badgers are snared every year and frustrated that hunting, albeit in to intrude into the lives of others and say simply because the League Against Cruel a different form, is still continuing; why whatever thought enters their blinkered Sports director tweeted it? Or that those else the torrent of childish and ignorant and bigoted minds. I used to think such who attended 2016’s Boxing Day meets, internet abuse? situations could be solved by the person according to the same ‘expert’, are now So, despite all those insults, accusations, involved just being told to get mostly opposed to hunting? And nothing lies and obscenities, it is important to a thicker skin, after all they’re just words, excites the keyboard warrior more realise why it is happening… and, in that aren’t they? But what is unknown to than when some incident can give rise regard, maybe what is worse than being to a frenzy of tweets, creating an tweeted about, to paraphrase Oscar Wilde, atmosphere akin to dropping a piece of is not being tweeted about. ● Jim Barrington is animal meat into a tank of piranhas. welfare consultant to the Countryside Alliance. A former If all that resulted from social media director of the League Against was that those who seem permanently CPS guidelines can be downloaded Cruel Sports he has always attached to one device or another were from www.cps.gov.uk/legal/a_to_c/ met online abuse with great allowed to vent their anger it might not communications_sent_via_social_ serenity and stoicism. Follow him on Twitter @jimbarrington be so bad, but of course it doesn’t end media/ there. Infl ammatory statements from

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 33

33 Online Abuse RG.indd 33 16/02/2017 11:13 FEATURE RURAL CRIME Prevention, intelligence, enforcement and reassurance – working to combat rural crime ➺ DAVE JONES is chief constable of North Yorkshire Police and the national policing lead for Wildlife Crime and Rural Affairs. He writes exclusively for Countryside Alliance members about how we can help bring rural crime down.

hose who live and visit our further to break any barriers. commit rural crime. The sheer volume of beautiful county of North We have made great progress here in success in the use of this technology on Yorkshire do so because of North Yorkshire in our core business of a national level has resulted in continued its outstanding rural beauty. tackling rural crime, to involve and reassure investment by police in all areas of the UK. T Whether it’s tackling crime our rural communities, and are addressing along our county’s designated heritage concerns on conservation. Under North ENFORCEMENT coastline or on the rolling hills of North Yorkshire’s stewardship of the national Operation Checkpoint is the largest Yorkshire Moors and the Yorkshire Dales, it Wildlife Crime and Rural Affairs portfolio, rural policing operation of its kind in the presents a unique policing challenge. we aim to develop on the existing working country, and saw Cleveland, Cumbria, I was delighted to become the national practices. With a strategic framework of Durham, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and lead on Wildlife Crime and Rural Affairs Prevention, Intelligence, Enforcement and Northumbria join forces to target cross- with temporary assistant chief constable Reassurance, the aim is to make our rural border criminals. This sent a clear message Amanda Oliver as my deputy, building on areas safer, and feel safer. There is also a to travelling criminals: “If you go into rural the existing work of Dyfed – Powys’ police focus on developing and strengthening our areas to commit crime, we will catch you.” chief constable Simon Prince. regional and national network of partners Targeted proactive patrols involving police North Yorkshire’s police and crime in order to share best practice. and our volunteer watch schemes have commissioner Julia Mulligan chairs The proven very successful. North Yorkshire is PREVENTION National Rural Crime Network. Their recent one of the safest places in the country, and survey showed rural crime across the UK Recently in North Yorkshire I introduced we are determined to keep it that way. is vastly under reported, with more than a dedicated team of specialised offi cers – Operations similar to this across the UK will one-in-four not reporting crime. The survey the Rural Taskforce. This team, consisting continue until travelling criminals get the estimated the cost of rural crime to be £800 of 18 police offi cers, police community message that rural areas are far from a soft million a year. But it’s not just the fi nancial support offi cers and civilians is spread out target, and if they do intend to go out and impact, it is the emotional impact to our across our huge county and are patrolling commit crime they will face a dedicated communities. We must continue to build on remote areas of North Yorkshire, engaging network intent on stopping them. the need for engagement when addressing with people and businesses to provide REASSURANCE rural concerns. We recognise that the rural bespoke crime prevention advice. This communities are not reporting all crime taskforce is the biggest of its kind in the Social media continues to be a fantastic that occurs, and the police must engage UK, and its members work closely with tool in the fi ght against crime. The our large number of special constables and recent introduction of ‘North Yorkshire volunteers who are making a real difference Community Messaging’ provides an to people living in our rural communities. effective way of getting information Dave Jones is Chief out to the community quickly. It’s a free Constable of North Yorkshire INTELLIGENCE Police and the national policing community messaging system that allows lead for wildlife and rural affairs. The use of Automatic Number Plate you to register to receive the initiatives He is the National Police Chiefs’ Recognition technology (ANPR) and aimed at tackling crime, notifi cations and Council leader for citizens in specialist resources, such as our Road community news happening in your local policing, where he is helping to develop stronger links between Crime Team, make the 6000 miles of North neighborhood, via text message, email or communities and the police Yorkshire’s roads a hostile environment app. I urge all rural communities to engage through volunteering. He was for the criminal fraternity to succeed. through social media, not only as a method awarded the Queen’s Police Exploiting the opportunities of ANPR as of bringing people together but also in the Medal for Distinguished Service in the New Year Honours list. a national intelligence source is another fi ght against crime. tactic in the fi ght against those who In 2016 I attended my fi rst national

34 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

34 N Yorks Police RG.indd 34 17/02/2017 14:04 FEATURE RURAL CRIME

Wildlife Crime Enforcers Conference. Police and partners shared learning and experiences. In the hugely benefi cial networking exercise the dedication, expertise and passion of these individuals and groups was plain to see. Present were members of the Nation Wildlife Crime Unit www.nwcu.police.uk. In particular, the head of that unit chief inspector Martin Simms recently revived a global law enforcement award in South Africa for ‘leadership of one of the world’s most outstanding police units dedicated to combating wildlife crime’. The conference reiterated the absolute necessity to continue to tackle wildlife crime in our countrysides and at our borders in order to protect species. Through prevention, intelligence, enforcement and reassurance, my vision is that we will be more visible and available to our rural communities. Listening, engaging and addressing the issues that matter most. Giving rural policing the national priority it deserves. ●

The Countryside Alliance is proud to be a stakeholder in the National Rural Crime Network, the group that works with The key survey results were: Government, the Police and other rural ● Financial impact of crime on levels drop to just 23% when organisations to highlight the key problems rural economy is signifi cant – the it comes to the rural public’s of rural crime. Our Head of Policy, Sarah cost of crime to rural communities perceptions of the police’s ability to Lee, attends meetings of the network and is is estimated to be £800 million1 solve crime. in regular contact with other stakeholders. equivalent to £200 for every ● Crime is under reported in rural The network’s 2015 survey of over 17,000 household in the countryside. The areas – more than one in four people living and working in rural areas average cost to rural households (27%) did not report the last crime throughout England and Wales suggests who are victims of crime is £2500 of which they were a victim. This the true cost of crime in rural areas could and £4100 for rural businesses. means Home Offi ce fi gures of exceed £800m. This fi gure is 21 times ● Fear of crime is increasing – 39% 294,000 rural crimes between higher than previous fi gures, dwarfi ng of rural people are very or fairly April 2014 and May 2015 could earlier estimates. worried about becoming a victim of be incorrect and the actual The survey also indicates that hard- crime, compared to 19% nationally. number of crimes could be as pressed young families and farmers are the Even more worryingly, 32% of high as 403,000. most frequent victims of crime, with the respondents are more fearful of ● Rural communities are resilient average cost of those crimes to a household becoming victims of crime than – community spirit is clear to see being over £2,500 and for a business fi ve years ago, compared to only in our rural communities. The vast over £4,000. 3% who are less fearful. Rural majority feel they very or fairly strongly belong in their community, Moreover, there appears to be a vicious businesses are the most fearful of becoming victims of crime, with with 27% feeling that sense of circle of low expectations, leading to 51% very or fairly fearful, closely belonging has increased in the chronic under-reporting, anger, frustration followed by younger families. last fi ve years. 25% of people and worry. The result is increasing fear ● Low satisfaction rates of police also felt that their community of crime and signifi cantly lower performance in rural areas – just pulled together to improve their satisfaction levels in the police than 39% of rural people rate the police neighbourhood the national average. as good (32.4%) or excellent ● Lessons for Local Authorities As a consequence of these fi ndings, the (6.3%). Among rural businesses this and other partners – two issues Network made seven recommendations fi gure was just 32%. Those fi gures of greatest concern to the rural including fair funding for rural areas; more compare to 63% nationally who community were road safety joined up working with partners and think the police is doing a good (63%) – which the police play communities, building on rural resilience; job (53% Good and 10% Excellent), a crucial part in, but which embedding best practice; developing new showing rural communities have a they cannot resolve without policies and ways of working; and ensuring signifi cantly lower satisfaction rate working with partners – and fl y- a more targeted approach within rural than their urban counterparts. tipping, which is now a civil communities. ● The survey showed satisfaction offence (61%).

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 35

34 N Yorks Police RG.indd 35 17/02/2017 14:04 FEATURE GAMEKEEPERS

Supporting keepers for 25 years: The Gamekeepers Welfare Trust 1992-2017 ➺ In 2017 we can all support and celebrate the 25th anniversary of this valuable and much-loved charity. 25th anniversary celebrations for the Gamekeepers’ Welfare he Gamekeepers’ Welfare year. Working with all the main Trust Trust (GWT), a charity organisations which provide a focus at formed 25 years from the game fairs, recognising the gathering places Gamekeeping for Life conferences Gamekeepers’ Benevolent for gamekeepers, and an ongoing aim to will be held at the following dates Association,T was formed to support be known by every working and retired and venues with keynote speakers gamekeepers, help alleviate poverty and keeper and their dependents. This means from major estates in the UK as well make provision for retirement, and it still a close-working relationship with the NGO, as local estates: does so today. The GWT started in 1992 BASC and SGA as well as the CA, CLA, 21 March Tuesday with impetus from Sir Joseph Nickerson via Moorland Association, Scottish Land and a generous donation and further support Estates and others. This also means being Packington Hall, Meriden, from The Earl of Aylesford who has chaired known in the charitable sector, NHS and Warwickshire (home of GWT the Trust from the outset. social sector. Working with colleges and Chairman The Earl of Aylesford). There have been many raffl es, dinner students is focussed around providing Key note speaker: Lord James Percy, dances and auctions throughout the packs of information on career paths, Patron of the GWT. years to raise funds, and gamekeepers job register and self-help, travelling 28 March Tuesday and their families have been the recipients round the colleges and providing of necessary and welcome grants in information and support through the Swinton Park, Masham, Ripon, North times of poverty, old age and ill health. helpline and website. Yorkshire. Key note speaker: Lord Small grants have also been given for Volunteers have come on board Masham, and briefi ngs from local educational purposes. throughout the years to bring a wealth of sporting estates. In recent years, additional support knowledge and experience in these areas, 12 April Wednesday has enabled a holistic service which has providing expertise in health, employment, Blair Atholl Estates, Blair Atholl, taken account of the needs of working with associated fact sheets, social media, Pitochry, Perthshire, with opening keepers and loneliness and isolation of a presence and support in fundraising and address from Mrs Sarah Troughton individuals and families in diffi cult times events and much more. and briefi ngs from local sporting and in retirement. Whilst gamekeepers, To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the estates. stalkers and ghillies tend to be a close-knit GWT, achievements to date, and strategies community who look after their own, it is for the future, there are a number of 25 April Tuesday more diffi cult once retired and away from events planned for the year. A series of Floors Castle, Floors, Kelso, networks of friends and activity especially conferences are outlined below and will be Roxburghshire, with welcome from when in failing health. This can cause held during the Spring. The Gamekeeping His Grace The Duke of Roxburghe, intense isolation with many associated for Life conferences will feature speakers key note speaker Lord Dalhousie effects including poor mental health. outlining their experiences of how and briefi ngs from sporting estates. A 24-hour helpline now provides a gamekeepers work with their employers to signifi cant source of support, whether to boost conservation and the local economy 3 May Wednesday listen in confi dence, inform and provide on- through shooting, and how adversity can Sparsholt College, Sparsholt, going help which is not time constrained. be overcome through inspiring courage, Winchester, Hampshire, with key Other benefi ts provided include annual fortitude and cooperation. note speaker and briefi ngs from grants for individuals and families below Gamekeeper packs will also be local estates. benefi t level, cards, fl owers and gifts, as distributed during the year. Further details well as letters and telephone calls. Email, and booking forms for the conferences text and Facebook messaging has provided will be sent in early February and will be additional means of contact. available on the website. There will be no For more information, visit: The GWT is an independent charity formal ticket price, but donations would be thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com with a modern outlook in its 25th warmly welcomed to cover costs. ●

36 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

36 - 37 Gamekeeper RG.indd 36 16/02/2017 14:38 “Making life with wet dogs easier”

Double thickness cotton towelling dog drying coats, sofa throws, fitted bed covers and dog drying mitts

03332 079960 www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

p37_CA_Spring17.indd 37 17/02/2017 15:31 Before ‡No Bleach ‡No Water Blasting ‡No Caustic Materials ‡No Elbow Grease After

Before

Moss, mould, lichen and algae remover After Can be used on ANY outside surface! -XVWVSUD\DQGZDONDZD\RXUSURGXFWZRUNVVR\RXGRQ·WKDYHWR

24hr Tel: www.wetandforget.co.uk WITH THIS VOUCHER CODE: CSA20BBCF20

p38_CA_Spring17.indd 38 17/02/2017 15:49 FEATURE WILD FOOD

Heart of the Countryside dinner ➺ DAMIEN MCCRYSTAL recounts a unique wild and foraged dinner created to raise funds for the Countryside Alliance.

he problem, really, with £3,000 offer by the Wine Auction Dinner’s proliferated throughout East Anglia and preparing a showcase chairman Simon Mackenzie-Smith. beyond. It is hard to understand why this ‘Heart of the Countryside’ All the birds, rabbits, hare and squirrels delicious meat is not available more often dinner for 10 people (and parts thereof) were shot or trapped in butchers’ shops and restaurants. Janey Twas never about the cooking – in North Yorkshire, and I was helped Cator of Ranworth in Norfolk lent me particularly as I had the Masterchef considerably by gamekeepers Jonathan her gamekeeper – the endlessly patient judge William Sitwell working with Mudd at Wydale and Matthew Streadman Robert Seaman – and a doe was shot. me in the kitchen. The diffi cult bit was at Wykeham Abbey. Four weeks before I marinated the haunch for several days in going to be the sourcing, particularly they were needed, I was stuffi ng carcasses spicy ginger beer, replacing that with as all the guests were familiar with and bags of offal into the freezer. My a thicker marinade of olive oil, herbs, traditional game cookery and were not wife was particularly disgusted when garlic and maple syrup. The saddle was going to be swept off their feet by roast she found a crow (a surprise dish not simply seasoned and seared while the pheasant or similar. advertised) staring up at her. foreleg was braised for several hours with The plan, dreamt up by the City But that was the easy bit. Lampreys are onion, bacon and white wine, until it was PR man and Alliance supporter a lot harder to fi nd. Once, these ancient falling off the bone. The liver was used for Nicko Miles, was to concoct a menu vampire vertebrates (at half a billion years one of the most controversial dishes of different and intriguing enough to old, they outrank the dinosaurs) were the evening: venison liver crème caramel. attract a big bid at the Alliance’s annual very popular for the table. Indeed, the It sounds horrible but tasted wonderful Wine Auction Dinner, where City money Ancient Romans loved them and our not unlike a foie gras crème brûlée fl ows freely for cases of fi ne wine and own Henry I was said to have died I enjoyed many years ago. Next to these, shooting days. from a surfeit of them in 1135. But the parsnip-and-honey ice cream and a combination of pollution, interference the strong Oxfordshire cheese were IN THE END, THIS WAS THE with river fl ows and lampreys’ appetite child’s play. MENU ON OFFER: for gamefi sh resulted in them being Back to that crow: I fi nely chopped the almost wiped out in the UK. The people breasts and heart and fried them in butter, of Gloucester wanted to make The serving them on little crackers. Everyone Appetisers Squirrel curry, hare pie, rabbit Queen a lamprey pie for her Diamond ate them (I think) but did not know poached with hops, mini kebabs of Jubilee in 2012, but had to import what they were until afterwards. Simon game bird liver and heart with chilli, them from Canada. At one stage I was probably summed up the general attitude tiny grouse burgers. making enquiries about travelling to when he said: “I would be lying if I said all Amaze-Bouche Latvia to fetch some. However, when of it was delicious — the crow was at the Venison liver crème caramel. told of my search, the well-connected trickier end of the scale.” I thought it was Starters Yorkshire landowner George Winn Darley pretty good. Pan-fried breast and leg of pigeon. suggested I contact Shaun McGinty, the Still, digestion was no doubt helped Fish Environment Agency’s helpful fi sheries by the array of wines laid on by Nicko A ‘Surfeit of Lampreys’. offi cer for North and East Yorkshire, who Miles: Pol Roger Cuvee Winston Churchill Main 2000; Valentini Trebbiano d’Abruzzi 2007; Chinese Water Deer three ways in turn put me in touch with Paul Bird (seared saddle, braised foreleg, of Marine Nutrition in Grimsby. He has Meursault Charmes, Darviot Perin, 2007; barbecued haunch), with game one of the very few lamprey netting Anwilka (Stellenbosch) 2006; Alter Ego porridge and seasonal vegetables. licenses and agreed to supply me with de Chateau Palmer, Margaux 2009; Haut Pudding 36 of them. Preparing them was grim and Brion 1990 and Rieussec 2002, Sauternes. Pears poached in spiced white messy: they are covered in slime which Helped by that lot, anything would have wine with parsnip-and-honey can only be removed by blanching them slipped down pretty nicely. ● ice cream. in scalding water and then scraping them. Cheese Once gutted and slow-cooked in chopped Rollright hand-made cheese from Damien McCrystal tomatoes and white wine, however, they Oxfordshire and freshly made soda formerly city editor of The Sun, bread were very tasty – not unlike sardines. is a food writer and restaurant Somewhat easier to fi nd was a Chinese reviewer. He was one of a team water deer. Introduced to Britain by the of supporters keen to support the Alliance’s work in an It was interesting enough to attract Duke of Bedford at Woburn Abbey they unusual and delicious way. some busy bidding, culminating in a — like the muntjac — have escaped and

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 39

39 Countryside dinner RG.indd 39 17/02/2017 12:10 SUPPORT THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE CAMPAIGN FOR SHOOTING

)|_;omѴ‹;u;‚-ƓƖƏ";ur;mঞm-)|_;omѴ‹;u;‚-ƓƖƏ";ur;ঞm-

u;-|;7|o1;Ѵ;0u-|;;u;‚-ĽvƓƖƏ|_0bu|_7-‹ $  !) +ƓƖƏ$ $" ŬƑƏƏr;uঞ1h;|Ň u-‰‰bѴѴ|-h;rѴ-1;omƒu7-‹ƑƏƐƕ $o;m|;urѴ;-v;ˆbvb|‰‰‰ĺ1o†m|u‹vb7;Ŋ-ѴѴb-m1;ĺou]ou1-ѴѴƏƑƏƕѶƓƏƖƑƖѶ

$blomm;uĶ_b;= Š;1†ࢼˆ;Ķo†m|u‹vb7;ѲѲb-m1;ĺ|_bvbv-†mbt†;orrou|†mb|‹|oo‰m-rb;1;o=_bv|ou‹Ļ

o†m|u‹vb7;ѲѲb-m1;v-Ѳ-ub;7v|-@-m7†m7;uƎѴ‹;-uoѲ7v-u;mo|;Ѳb]b0Ѳ;=ouࢼ1h;|vĸb1;mv;70‹|_;-l0Ѳbm]olbvvbomĸb1;mv;m†l0;uƍƍƍňƍƍƑѴѳƓňňƐƏƒƒƎƏňƍƍƎ

Beretta.indd 1 17/02/2017 08:58 FEATURE HUNTING MEETS SHOOTING

Beagles raise funds - by shooting

➺ POLLY PORTWIN reports on a fundraising shoot that saw farmers, gamekeepers and hunt staff come together for a great day in the fi eld.

“ ood farming and good following on from taking part in the conservation have been Association of Masters of Harriers and my passion during the 46 Beagles (AMHB) hunting bursary scheme Polly Portwin of the CA receives www.ruralshots.com years we’ve lived here,” – were two of the 10 guns that were a cheque from Mike Smith.

explainedG Old Berkeley Beagles (OBB) treated to a day of generous hospitality. Photo: former hunt treasurer John Harper, Monica Harper provided lunch for developed on their farm at Tusmore near whose Pimlico Farm in Oxfordshire was everyone involved and after shooting Bicester. “We have achieved hunting, the setting for a shoot held in January there was a shoot supper in a local pub shooting and fi shing here and run charity this year which was raising money for where I was delighted to receive events in all three sports every year.” the beagle pack and The Countryside a cheque for £1,000 (pictured right). The Old Berkeley Beagles, whose Alliance Foundation (see box). “We are incredibly grateful to the country lies in Buckinghamshire, For the last three years, the hunt has Harper family who continue to be very Oxfordshire and Hertfordshire, been given the opportunity to auction generous to the beagles,” explained Mike. opened their newly-built hunt kennels a day’s shooting hosted by the Harper “This shoot has raised a huge amount for near Aylesbury last summer. With family as one of the lots on offer at their our pack over the past few years and this accommodation for hunt staff and Christmas Lunch which was held at year we wanted to raise money for The hounds all powered by solar energy, Addington Manor Equestrian Centre. For Countryside Alliance Foundation as well. the pack will use some of the other this season’s auction, it was decided that “The hunting, farming and shooting funds raised during the shoot for further the hunt would split the proceeds raised fraternities all work very closely together improvements to their site. ● from the shoot with the Alliance due throughout the year and we are delighted to the strong links between the for this opportunity to be able to show What is The two organisations. our support for all country sports,” Countryside Alliance Joint-master Mike Smith and his son continued Mike. Foundation? James (18) – who is now hunting hounds Local farmer Julian Price, who supports This is a charity which informs the beagles as well as hunting with the “….NOTHING SHOWS THE the public about the countryside local foxhound packs, bought the day for SOLIDARITY BETWEEN US and the natural environment. two guns at the auction. BETTER THAN DAYS LIKE THIS The fl agship project is Fishing “Both my guest and I enjoyed our WHERE THERE ARE FARMERS, 4 Schools (see page 23) which day so much last year that I decided GAMEKEEPERS AND MEMBERS teaches young people the unique I didn’t want to miss out so I made sure OF HUNT STAFF ENJOYING A skills of fl y fi shing. Through short I bought it again this year,” enthused DAY SHOOTING TOGETHER.” courses at schools across Britain, Julian whose guest on this occasion was world-famous angler Charles Gareth Bow, huntsman of the Brocklesby Jardine and his team have in Lincolnshire. enhanced the syllabus for many “The Countryside Alliance works hard young people. campaigning on behalf of all our country In 2015, the Countryside sports and nothing shows the solidarity Alliance Foundation took over between us better than days like this the administration of Casting for where there are farmers, gamekeepers Recovery UK & Ireland (CfR) (see and members of hunt staff enjoying a page18). This offers all expenses day’s shooting together.” paid fl y fi shing and counselling The other guns included former retreats for ladies who have (or have had) breast cancer. Bicester Hunt countryman Andy For further details about Coupe, farmer Michael Woodford and the work of the Countryside gamekeeper Steve Stringer from Wales. Alliance Foundation, visit Along with his sons Michael and Paul, www.countryside-alliance.org/ John Harper enjoys supporting other the-foundation James Smith. charities by using the facilities they have

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 41

41 Old Berkeley Beagles RG.indd 41 16/02/2017 13:41 p42_CA_Spring17.indd 42 17/02/2017 16:00 FEATURE GAMEKEEPER

‘The Gamekeeper’s Dog’ ➺ JOHN COWAN is an experienced gamekeeper working in Scotland and in his book ‘The Gamekeeper’s Dog’ he shares a life-time’s expertise in using and training working dogs. Here we bring you an extract from the book; please see below for a special member discount.

erriers have always been the insects which can annoy him on the widely used by gamekeepers low ground. The keeper when checking especially hill keepers. No dog these runners usually takes a fellow keeper in the keeper’s kennel is loved or companions with him as they can be moreT than his terrier. He may be a poultry over 50 yards in length. When the terrier killer, fi ght other dogs in the kennels or is entered, the fox may fl ush out of shot if even, sometimes disastrously, his employer’s only one gun is present. The keeper who will be less inclined to show himself and dogs, chew the head-rest of the Land Rover knows his ground will know the dens that may decide to try his luck with the terrier. when left unattended, chase sheep, roll in can be checked single-handed and will tend Some terriers are better than others at a long-dead fox just before you are about to check these alone. shifting foxes and some breeds tend to be to put him in the Land Rover or disappear The weapon of choice nowadays is the better than others. down a rabbit hole for 24 hours at six multi shot semi-automatic shotgun: this is When the fox bolts he usually makes o’clock just as you were about to go home not sport and a miss and a fox escaping no noise and accelerates to top speed in but the keeper always forgives him because is not a scenario to be countenanced. The a very short distance. It is an exhilarating he delivers the goods that matter: he grouse keeper will check earths more experience and often requires a very kills foxes and cannot be replaced by regularly as soon as the shooting season for diffi cult shot. Occasionally in ‘foxy’ country other methods. grouse is over (the beginning of December). there can be more than one fox at home: Foxes at this time are often on the move this is especially likely during the mating TERRIERS AND FOXES ON as the breeding season approaches and season which runs from approximately THE HILL vixens explore new territories, looking for mid-January to mid-February although there The ban on Cymag gas meant that a an area unoccupied by other foxes with is evidence that some vixens are coming good terrier became essential to the fox a good food supply and little disturbance. into season earlier and later than this. The controller and many more keepers kept A grouse moor fi ts the bill perfectly so majority of cubs are born in the month one or more, even a small pack where there there is a never-ending supply of new of March and most keepers check known was enough work. A hill keeper with a large ‘recruits’ to colonise the moor and take dens from the middle of April. beat (more than 5,000 acres) will know the advantage of the bounty that it offers. From It is not diffi cult to see how the keeper location of every fox earth on that beat and the beginning of December to the end of becomes attached to his terrier in these will check every hole at least once a month January the earths are checked regularly circumstances. Usually he will take a vehicle or even fortnightly. This is virtually all year then left until the end of March to the as far into the hills as he can, then hike up round but certain times of the year are middle of April. The reason for this is to into some remote glen where he knows more likely to fi nd a fox at home. Ground leave the breeding earths quiet so that any of a den which is regularly used. This far where there is little cover in the way of vixen on the moor will have her cubs on north and this high up, the weather in woods is the most likely place to fi nd a fox the moor and be more easily accounted for. April can be anything from pleasantly because in fi ne weather the fox will be When checking an earth, it must be warm to sub-zero with snow on the ground lying out in the sun in preference to going approached into the wind. Perfect quiet is and the keeper and his small dog feel into a damp earth. Sunny banks of bracken the order of the day. This can be diffi cult as though they are both united with are also favoured. So the keeper only tends if there are two or three guns but it is a single purpose. ● to check the holes when the weather is essential if the fox is to bolt. The terrier extreme: cold, biting wind, heavy rain, deep should be let loose 20-30 yards from the The ‘Gamekeeper’s Dog’ is frost, snow. hole and left to check it himself while the published by Merlin Unwin, During a heatwave foxes on the hill tops guns as silently as possible should take up normal RRP £20 each, but can be found sheltering in peat runners. their vantage points to get the best chance Countryside Alliance members A peat runner is formed when a burn has of a shot. The terrier should be a bolter can buy for £15 each plus £3.50 gone underground making a tunnel in ie. a terrier which does not fi ght with the p&p: simply call 01584 877456 peaty ground. In the summer these usually fox but harasses him until he vacates his and quote Countryside Alliance. dry up, especially in really hot weather. The den. Obviously if the fox has heard human The deal runs until 30 April. fox fi nds these tunnels cool and free from footsteps, voices or a gun being cocked, he

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 43

43 Gamekeeper'd Dog.indd 43 16/02/2017 14:44 FEATURE HUNTING

The Cottesmore: 350 years and still going strong. For’ard on! ➺ The history of the Cottesmore hunt is a trail that can be followed back to the reign of Charles II. Now, 350 years from its beginning, the hunt has celebrated this milestone with a weekend of events and parties. CHARLOTTE COOPER fi nds out more about this venerable pack.

N 1666, as London was recovering later for lunch! We decided it would be best “I think we managed to involve the from the effects of the Great Plague to do it all in one go and have a real focus whole hunting community over the and fi ghting the Great Fire of rather than drawing it out across the season. weekend,” said Clare. London, Henry Viscount Lowther “The carol service is an annual event Another popular part of the 350-year decidedI to travel with his hounds the and we have our own choir made up of celebrations has been The Pick of the Pack, 200-odd miles from Lowther Castle hunt members who have sung together for an oil painting of four Cottesmore hounds in Westmorland to Fineshade Abbey in fi ve years now,” she said. “Then our meet commissioned from hunting artist Paula east Northamptonshire for a spot of took place the next day at Robert and Sam Vize. The original was sold at the Sunday deer hunting. Weatherby’s place, Burrough House at lunch and sales of canvas reproductions are This desire to try his hounds in the Burrough on the Hill. It was fantastic. There going well, raising money for the hunt. widespread forests that surrounded were around 200 mounted and the same Joint-master Andrew Osbourne explained Rockingham Castle was the start of a again on foot, but they were prepared. They that the four hounds chosen to be centuries-long connection between the had stacked bales with the drinks and food immortalised in oils (below) – Monarch area and venery that puts the Cottesmore on them, so you just rode up and helped (15), Barber (12), Brainwave (11) and fi rmly in the running for the hotly yourself! It was a lovely day.” Hassle (12) – represent the important contested title of England’s oldest hunt. And That night, 430 supporters attended the bloodlines that run through the hunt’s 55 it means that this season they have a lot Scarlet Fever Ball at the Rutland Agricultural couple hounds. to celebrate. Society building in Oakham, in a tent The Cottesmore hound is a Modern The Cottesmore’s motto for this decorated all in scarlet with poinsettias. English produced from an Old English base anniversary is: “350 years and still Then 200 came to the marquee for the with outcrosses to Welsh, American and Fell going strong. For’ard on!” And they are annual Hunt Supporters’ Club Lunch the hounds. The hounds in the picture have determined it will be around for many following day, which featured a huge display pedigrees that can be followed back to the more decades. of hunting memorabilia. 18th and 19th centuries. A celebratory weekend was held from 16 –18 December – starting with a carol The Pick of the Pack by service in Cottesmore Church, followed by Paula Vize. a special meet on the Saturday and a ball that evening, then a Christmas lunch on Sunday. Hunt secretary Clare Bell was one of 30 stalwart souls who managed all four events. “It was a full-on weekend,” she said. “I went to bed at 7am on the Sunday after doing the horses, then got up three hours

Charlotte Cooper is a media consultant for the Countryside Alliance and previously worked for Horse & Hound. Derbyshire based, she hunts with the Barlow.

44 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

44 - 45 Cottesmore RG.indd 44 16/02/2017 14:22 FEATURE HUNTING Steve Carr http://www.carrphotoco.uk Steve Photos: Photos: “This breeding produces the hybrid was chosen for his breeding, Brainwave for with them since I was six, so I have known vigour and desire to hunt that is so needed her brilliance in the fi eld and Hassle is the some amazing people. It’s fantastic for us to in the modern agricultural country that we archetypal Cottesmore hound – woolly and celebrate our illustrious past, but the young hunt across,” said Andrew. lemon-coloured. You always fall in love with riders are our future.” ● the hounds you paint, but I’d love to go “THE COTTESMORE HOUND back to the Cottesmore kennels again.” IS A MODERN ENGLISH As a hounds trustee joint-master Bee PRODUCED FROM AN Timeline of the Bell is responsible – with the extremely Cottesmore hunt OLD ENGLISH BASE WITH knowledgeable journalist and author 1666: Henry Viscount Lowther OUTCROSSES TO WELSH, Michael Clayton – for keeping a watchful rides from Lowther Castle to hunt AMERICAN AND FELL eye over the hounds breeding going in the forests of Leicestershire HOUNDS.” forward. But this is not the only way she and Northamptonshire. plays a part in the future of the hunt. 1696–1779: The area from Belvoir to East Northamptonshire is Paula Vize visited the kennels in Ashwell, “My big passion is getting young people hunted on a shared basis by out hunting,” said Bee. “I run the hunting Oakham, last October and spent a day one pack, belonging to the 3rd meeting and photographing the hounds test for our Pony Club branch and like to Duke of Rutland, the Earl of with huntsman Chris Edwards. She was get the children up at the front where they Gainsborough, Earl Cardigan, immediately drawn to Monarch, whom she can see what the huntsman is doing. Over Lord Howe and Lord Gower. described as the “George Clooney of the the centenary weekend we had 30 or 40 1732: The Gainsboroughs set hound world.” young people out.” up their own pack to hunt the “Hounds are usually pretty impossible to The Cottesmore was also part of our country later known as sketch as they are either running around or Hunting Newcomers’ Week (October 22-29 the Cottesmore. curled up asleep,” she said, “but whenever 2016) putting on a special meet on 1776: Boundaries agreed with Hugo Meynell between the Quorn you let Monarch into an area he just stood October 22. and the Gainsborough pack, and posed. Bee added: “The Cottesmore has an kennelled at Cottesmore. “I didn’t have long to work with the amazing history and it is a real honour to 1880–1900: In the heyday of hounds but I knew what I wanted – Barber be a small part of it. I’ve been involved Victorian hunting the Cottesmore becomes very fashionable. 1914–1918: Limited hunting takes place during years of World War One thanks to Hugh Lonsdale who kept the hunt afl oat fi nancially and practically. 1918–1939: The period between World War One and Two is another purple patch for hunting. The construction of Cottesmore Airfi eld (1938) and Rutland Water (1978) removes 3,100 acres of hunting country. 2005: Hunt moves into new kennels at Ashwell. Today: The Cottesmore continues to fl ourish, hunting within the confi nes of the Hunting Act.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 45

44 - 45 Cottesmore RG.indd 45 16/02/2017 14:23 www.kennelmate.co.uk Dog Beds that Work for Working Dogs

plus full range of

Gundog Training Equipment LOUIS LEJEUNE LTD. ELY CAMBS. CB6 3RA Tel 07970 765637 • 01902 798167 www.louislejeune.com Tel : (01353) 740444

We are Criminal Defence Experts specialising in the defence of Animal Welfare Act offences, RSPCA Prosecutions, Hunting HAYATE Act Offences, Environment Agency Issues, NATANOKO 60 330-8 (9m reach) DEFRA Offences, Regulatory Breaches, Dangerous Dogs Act, Poaching, Shot Gun Licencing and much more besides… Think Silky! If you are facing allegations or revocation of when you want Quality and Innovation licences and you need some advice, give us a call to discuss your situation in complete confi dentiality. You will be put through to a helpful and experienced professional who will quickly assess your situation and suggest the most SUGOI 360-6.5 appropriate course of action.

If you do fi nd yourself under arrest, always ask for a solicitor. Legal advice at the police ZUBAT 390-7.5 station is free and can make a real difference to the outcome of your case. ULTR A In Court proceedings Legal Aid is Available for certain offences subject to means ACCEL and interests of justice tests. 240 -7.5 Silky Fox Handsaws Phone 01792 474201 • Out of Hours 07969 378750 • Fax: 08456 118388 [email protected] • www.clivereessolicitor.com www.silkyfox.co.uk • 01981 590224 Clive Rees & Associates are Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Visit silkyfox.co.uk to fi nd your local stockist under Registration Number: 495790

The Mole Hole Mole catching theeEndorsed by Master Mole EasySet wayy Catchers in the UK Specialist EasySet traditional moleskin Mole Trap clothing for men £24.50 each and women. All-in-one molecatchers kit £95.00 (save £23.50) www.beagleproducts.comddtucts com oror call us on 01223 927216

British made, hand-tailored moleskin trousers, breeks and waistcoats.

www.themolehole.co.uk Tel: 01989 730376

p46_CA_Spring17.indd 42 17/02/2017 16:16 GET INVOLVED Summer events 2017

➺ MORE EVENTS Below are a few of the big dates for 2017 – our website has more at www.countryside-alliance.org/competitions/upcoming-events Dates for the diary 2017

■ March 30 ■ June 17-18 ■ September 1–3 Dinner at the Manchester Tennis A national weekend of community Chatsworth Country Fair, and Racquet Club, activities. Chatsworth Estate, Derbyshire. Salford, Greater Manchester. Including street parties, bake-offs, picnics www.chatsworthcountryfair.co.uk The evening includes a Champagne and barbecues will take place to mark the reception and three course dinner. Guest anniversary of the murder of Jo Cox MP. speaker will be Tim Bonner, and a sporting Read more information on our website. auction will be run by Mike Kenyon. Tickets cost £55 each, to book email ■ June 22–25 [email protected] The Royal Highland Show, Ingliston, Edinburgh. ■ May 3 royalhighlandshow.org The second annual ‘Fishing for our future’ dinner and auction, will be held at the Royal ■ June 28–29 ■ September 10 Hospital, Chelsea. Tickets are £300 each The Royal Norfolk Show, Hampshire Country Sports Day, and funds raised will support our Fishing Showground, Norwich, Norfolk. Tichborne Park, Hampshire. 4 Schools and Casting for Recovery UK & royalnorfolkshow.rnaa.org.uk www.hampshirecountrysportsday.co.uk Ireland and the Angling Trust. email pippa-chambers@countryside- ■ June 30–July 2 ■ September 12 alliance.org or call 0207 840 9258 The Scottish Game Fair, AGM of the Countryside Alliance Scone Palace, Perthshire. in London, details will be given in the ■ May 3–7 www.scottishfair.com summer issue. The Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials, Badminton, Gloucestershire. ■ July 11–13 ■ September 16–17 www.badminton-horse.co.uk The Great Yorkshire Show and The Midland Game Fair, Hound Shows, Weston Park, Shropshire. Showground, Harrogate, North Yorkshire. www.midlandgamefair.co.uk greatyorkshireshow.co.uk ■ October 29 ■ July 19 Aintree Countryside Race Day, The Festival of Hunting, Info to be published in the next issue. East of England Showground, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire. ■ November 17 festivalofhunting.com Cheltenham Countryside Race Day ■ May 31–June 3 Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire. The Royal Bath and West Show, ■ July 24–27 cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset. The Royal Welsh Show, www.bathandwest.com Showground, Llanelwedd, Powys. www.rwas.wales ■ June 8–10 South of England Show ■ July 28–30 and hound show, The Game Fair, Ardingly, West Sussex. Hatfi eld House, Hertfordshire. Congratulations to www.thegamefair.org the South of England THE GAMEKEEPERS’ WELFARE Agricultural Society on their ■ August 4–5 ➺ TRUST (GWT) is holding a series th 50 annual event. The Highland Fieldsports Fair, of 25th anniversary celebrations this www.seas.org.uk Moy Estate, Invernesshire. year in the form of Gamekeeping www.moyfi eldsportsfair.co.uk for Life conferences. ■ June 8–10 Confi rmed dates are listed below: The Royal Cornwall Show, ■ August 12–13 March 21 – Packington Hall, Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall. The Lowther Show and hound show Meriden, Coventry. royalcornwallshow.org Lowther Estate, Penrith, Cumbria. March 28 – Swinton Castle, Masham, North Yorkshire. www.lowthershow.co.uk April 12 – Blair Atholl, Perthshire. ■ June 17 April 25 – Floors Castle, Roxburghshire. Clay Shoot at Minterne House, ■ August 31–September 3 May 3 – Sparsholt College, Hampshire. Minterne, Dorset, by kind permission of the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, For more information, email Digby Family. Teams info sara-rutherford@ Burghley House, Stamford, Lincolnshire. [email protected] countryside-alliance.org www.burghley-horse.co.uk

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2017 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 47

47 events RG MK2.indd 47 17/02/2017 11:56 THEHE FEATURE THE COUNTRYSIDE IN WAR IN WAR

Christ Church and house manager Christ Church —The John Guest. Albrighton War Horse ➺ The Chase Project tells the tale of an extraordinary hunt- er who showed immaculate conduct in the Great War

uring the Great War over 16 his “War Horse”. million horses were used After seven months of training in on all the fronts, of which Bedfordshire and Essex, in February Sandon, half perished. The book, Christ Church and the 232nd Brigade Royal fiD lm and play War Horse highlighted their Field Artillery headed to France. This was tremendous contribution. However, Richard no ‘workhorse’ pressed into service by faultless extraction from a sea of barbed Pursehouse and Lee Dent of Staffordshire- the British Army, Christ Church was a and hooped wire and derelict shell holes”, based The Chase Project have unearthed a frontliner, a mount for his master as they and Sandon commented: “What does a possible inspiration behind the ‘true war- rode towards the guns. The two shared the horse think about when the shells are horse’ story. perils of battle, the “close-range fi re from bursting and the bullets are whistling round On a sunny morning in early August, low-fl ying aeroplanes”; his fi rst taste of his head?” Adding wryly that the horse was 1914, Lieutenant Viscount Sandon (later action was in the Ypres Salient when a gun probably thinking of running around in a the 6th Earl of Harrowby) of the 6th Stafford was stuck in a shell hole and with machine fi eld back home, or what mischief he could Battery, Royal Field Artillery, arrived at gun and rifl e bullets “rattling all around get up to that night in the lines. Stafford Grammar School to inspect the us”, Christ Church with ears cocked, stood His former groom during the war horses commandeered for use by the adamantine, listening to the bullets whining reminded Sandon in a letter of condolence British Army from neighbouring farms and all around him. that Christ Church would nearly every hunts. His eye fell upon a light chestnut For Viscount Sandon, Christ Church night get loose from the picket line and gelding with a white star on his nose, some would become “a horse who passed roam around eating all he could fi nd 15½ hands in height. through many a barrage, who would close (once managing to consume nearly all of The six-year-old horse, Christ Church, his old head down for a fi ve minutes ‘pow the sections’ ration of oats), or trampling had been hunted with the Albrighton wow’ nuzzling my neck reassuringly.” saddles into the mud, chewing blankets or (with country across Staffordshire and On one occasion in No Man’s Land at La stirrup leathers. The groom also seconded Shropshire). Sandon formed an immediate Maisonette (near Peronne, France) Christ the statement about Christ Church not partnership with the companion he called Church “performed a prodigious feat of being restless under fi re. In a letter published in The Times in 1933, Sandon compared his charger to Wellington’s Copenhagen, Napoleon’s Marengo, General Seeley’s Warrior, and even Snarleyow (the subject of Kipling’s 1890 poem describing the fatally wounded artillery horse that attempted to follow his gun). Sandon’s letter also referred to happier times – of how the implacable Christ Church would briefl y break loose from him, for example in April 1918 when he saw green standing corn, he proceeded to eat at the canter until brought back under control. Sandon and Christ Church forged an unbreakable bond: “Should my stick, strafi ng on his shoulders to increase, say, the pace “CHRIST CHURCH REPRESENTED “SOMETHING EMINENTLY STABLE, STEADY AND SANE IN A WORLD THAT NEEDED ALL THAT.” Viscount Sandon and Christ Church.

48 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

48-49 countryside JH.indd 48 16/02/2017 12:48 FEATURE THE COUNTRYSIDE IN WAR

of his trot, be distasteful to him, he would confi dante, claiming that he “will never love turn his head round and bite my leg, not another animal on this earth as he did the to the extent of pain, but as a tangible companion whose tail he could (and did) manifestation of disapproval... as of a pull like a bell rope, whose mouth he could senior ‘ticking off’ a subordinate!” On one (and did) kiss, or whose teeth would clench occasion, he was unsaddled into a puddle his hands without paining them...Whom he of mud, with — he was convinced — a could talk with for hours in war or peace sardonic snort from his mount. However, with complete mutual understanding in the throughout the war, culminating with silences of a still night or in the moment of a procession behind the victorious crisis or trouble.” regimental bands as they crossed the Christ Church was buried at the family Hohenzollern Bridge at Cologne in 1919, animal burial ground at Sandon Park, his tail Christ Church represented “something was mounted on the wall at Sandon Hall, as eminently stable, steady and sane in a world were his head and neck (a task undertaken that needed all that.” by taxidermist Edward Gerrard). After the Unlike many of the horses pressed into Great War his portrait was painted by James service during the Great War, Christ Church Lynwood Palmer. returned to England, living out his life at British cavalry troopers and drivers cared Sandon Hall in Staffordshire, enjoying long for their horses, consistently tending to periods out to grass. Most days he was their needs before they focussed on their Christ Church with Sandon ridden for three hours, and Sandon would own, no matter how exhausted they were. and son riding pillion. encourage his two sons and daughter to The Germans dismounted their cavalry ride from as early as one-year-old. Until and put them into the trenches and either “ARTILLERY MAY HAVE ‘WON’ October, 1933, Christ Church rode with the slaughtered their horses for food or set THE WAR, BUT HORSES North Cotswold Hunt and around the estate them to work (as happened to Joey and MOVED THE GUNS FORWARD. until the following month. By December his Topthorn in War Horse). HAIG UNDERSTOOD THE WAR health had declined and he was put When the Germans broke through in WOULD BE WON WITH BOOTS to sleep. the Kaiserschlact Spring Offensives of - AND HOOVES - ON THE In his letter published in The Times 1918, British cavalry was used effectively GROUND.” Sandon offered panegyric praise to his as mobile infantry, shoring up the line wherever the need was greatest. When the British moved onto the offensive for the The fi nal paragraph in Sandon’s 1933 advances in the last ‘Hundred Days’, cavalry letter printed in The Times suggests Christ was used as shock troops. A trooper and a Church represented all horses who went horse can move quicker than just a soldier to war:“Goodbye to all our dumb pals... whether in defence or attack. Whatever who served us all those years without his faults, Haig’s decision to maintain a day’s leave.” Sandon described Christ the cavalry can be argued as a major Church as faithful unfl appable my brother- contributor to an allied victory; artillery in-arms, his true war-horse his Frontliner may have ‘won’ the war, but horses moved Christ Church would have been nonplussed Lieutenant Viscount Sandon the guns forward. Haig understood the war by such praise; Sandon’s understated September, 1914, Stopsley in would be won with boots — and hooves observations concluded:“He just did Bedfordshire. — on the ground. his job.” ●

Sandon hall.

The Chase Project is appealing to readers for any additional information about Christ Church and the whereabouts of his portrait by James Lynwood Palmer. They can be contacted at [email protected]

www.countryside-alliance.org.ukwwwwwww .cococountuunntrysrysysidedede-al-a-alallialiaiancencncce.ororrg.ugguuk SPRSSPSPRINGPRPRIINNNGG 201202201700117 l COCCOUNTRYSIDEOUNTUNTNTRYSRYRYSYSIDEIDDEDE ALAALLIANCELLIALLIIAIANCNCENCE 4949

48-49 countryside JH.indd 49 16/02/2017 12:49 COUNTRYSIDEMy

Devon farmer WILFRED EMMANUEL- JONES set up the award- winning brand The Black Farmer 12 years ago. Having battled leukaemia in 2014, he still farms near Launceston in Devon.

hen I was a kid growing up in central a small farm on the Devon/Cornwall border. “Spurred on by my W Birmingham, living with parents And that was the start of my next journey! and eight siblings in a two-up two-down Being in Devon inspired me to start a love of sausages, but terraced house, as the eldest boy it was new business venture. Spurred on by my appalled at the lack of my job to help my Dad with the family love of sausages, but appalled at the lack allotment. There was no money, so being of quality in supermarket offerings back quality in supermarket able to supplement what little food we did then I decided to come up with my own. offerings back then I have with vegetables from the allotment And so The Black Farmer brand was born. was vital. Whilst there were jobs I hated Thanks to my neighbours who referred to decided to come up (like picking Brussels sprouts in winter), me as the black farmer, the brand name with my own. And what I did love was the sense of space and was a no brainer – and 12 years ago it freedom this small oasis of land gave me certainly caused a stir and put The Black so The Black Farmer in an otherwise overcrowded and noisy Farmer on the map. Today, we not only brand was born.” household. I vowed then that one day I produce one of the UK’s favourite would buy myself a small farm in the open brands of super premium gluten-free has been my passion, and while many countryside. I have a lot to thank that sausages, but a very successful range people after major illness want to change dream for as it became my driving force of chicken, burgers, meatballs, bacon, their lives and do other things, I don’t. and focus for the next 40 years of my life. eggs and cheese. I love what I do. But I do want to do the After a varied career (after an unsuccessful One thing I have learned about life is that things I have always wanted to do, and to spell in the Army) fi rst working as a chef, it throws the odd curve ball. Mine came in give back — I don’t want to leave this life then in TV as a producer/director for the 2014 when I was taken ill with leukaemia. If with regrets. All my energy is going into BBC which allowed me to travel the world it wasn’t for the team at University College taking the company to its next stage of making fi lms about food and drink, and Hospital, London, I would not be alive now. development and part of that was to make where I was credited with bringing many of I spent that year in hospital and underwent a TV commercial, something I have longed today’s major celebrity chefs to the small a stem cell transplant which has been very to do for many years. To bring together a screen for the fi rst time – including Gordon tough. It’s been a long haul, but as anyone team of creative people including my hero, Ramsay, Brian Turner and James Martin. will tell you a near brush with death re- Hollywood legend director Tony Kaye, and With my interest in food and drink I started focuses the mind and your priorities. After to create a game-changing advert was a marketing consultancy and built it into all, I had a year in hospital and plenty of exhilarating. And it gave voice to the things a successful business as a result of which I time to think about it! that make me tick as an individual, as The was able to achieve my dream and bought For the last 12 years The Black Farmer Black Farmer — including Morris dancing. It gave me the opportunity to shout about my love of and support for rural Britain, its place in our lives and its traditions. I am thankful to still have so much to be excited about. I am one lucky man. Find out more about The Black Farmer, including stockists, and to see the ad Wilfred mentions, visit www.theblackfarmer.com. ●

50 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2017 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

50 My Countryside RG.indd 50 16/02/2017 13:00 Dog Rocks.indd 1 17/02/2017 16:07 IGJF

THE BEST OF BRITISH WORKING & SPORTING DOG FOOD COMPLETE BEST BEST COMPLETE BEST SPECIALIST DRY DOG SPECIALIST DRY DOG FOOD DRY DOG FOOD FOOD

WINNER WINNER HIGHLY COMMENDED 2016-2017 your dog product2016-2017 awards 2016-2017 2016-2017

BEST BEST WET DOG DOG FOOD Our Recipes are Formulated without TREAT Grains, Gluten, Rice, Chicken, Eggs, %HHW3XOS$UWL¿FLDO&RORXUV WINNER WINNER 2016-2017 or Preservatives 2016-2017

ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE FOR HOME DELIVERY ANYWHERE IN THE UK www.millieswolfheart.co.uk 0800 612 4655

Millies Wolfheart.indd 1 17/02/2017 16:07