C 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

COUNTRYSIDESPRING 2016 £3.50 (when sold) ALLIANCE countryside-alliance.org.uk RURAL COLLEGES Which course?

LIVESTOCK WORRYING Police advice on dog control

THE HUNTSMAN’S A KEEPER’S LIFE HUNTSMAN Managing the Honouring Rhug Estate George Adams on his retirement CONSERVING CCARNAARNA A WWestest CoCoastast 2016 success sstorytory is election year Scottish and Welsh parties The magazine of set out their stalls

CA COVER SPRING.indd 3 23/02/2016 14:44 CELEBRATE THE COUNTRYSIDE

22-24 JULY 2016 STONELEIGH, WARWICKSHIRE

THE UK GAME FAIR IS SET TO BE THE SHOW FOR REAL FIELDSPORTS ENTHUSIASTS SHOOTING, FISHING, HUNTING, GUNDOGS & ESTATE MANAGEMENT – WHATEVER YOUR INTEREST, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR YOU TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM

l @UKGAMEFAIRf UKGAMEFAIR #UKGAMEFAIR #WELEADOTHERSFOLLOW #GAMEFAIR

UK Game Fair - Blaze.indd 1 18/02/2016 11:54 PLUS WHICH Contents GAME FAIR? SPRING 2016 Full listings on page 49

EDITOR’S LETTER

pring 2016 will be a busy one for all of us. Several elections S are taking place, including for the Welsh Assembly and the Scottish Parliament and 28 we have candidates from the main parties Conservation on the contesting seats in Wales and Scotland Isle of Carna

setting out their rural policies for you on Graham Rob Photo: p16. Alongside their views we bring the views of a Welsh gamekeeper (p20), a ➺ IN THIS ISSUE Scottish farmer and fi sherman (p50) and news of the conservation efforts of one NEWS AND CAMPAIGNS 30 Livestock worrying family on the Western Isle of Carna (p28). 4 News and Campaigns The facts, the law and common sense We also bring you a feature on the recent Boxing Day, the Law Commission and dog 32 Presenting the hunting debate land reform legislation in Scotland (p22) microchipping regulations Animal welfare consultant Jim Barrington on his that is sure to echo for some time to come. 9 What’s in a name education mission Elsewhere in this diverse issue we bring Tim Bonner ponders the outcry when named 35 The art of gunmaking you features from the European Firearms animals perish Drew Boxall on the traditional skill of gun engraving Directive (p11) and the skills involved in 11 Firearms Directive 36 Chalking it up engraving a gun (p35) to the threats faced Jack Knott outlines our views for shooting’s future John Slader on angling’s role in allaying threats by our chalkstreams (p36), the perils of FEATURES to our chalkstreams naming a wild animal (p9) and the range 12 Over 30 years’ service to the Fitz 38 Equestrian heritage of choices faced by teenagers keen on a George Bowyer marks Fitzwilliam Huntsman Ann Bullen’s illustrations are familiar to all career in the countryside (p25). George Adams’ retirement 41 Game recipe “We have candidates 14 The universal language of fi shing A spring woodpigeon recipe Taking Casting for Recovery’s message to Italy featuring gingerbread from the main parties 16 Devolved elections 43 Supporting hunt staff Candidates outline their rural policies for you The Hunt Staff Benefi t Society’s unsung work contesting seats in 20 A Welsh gamekeeper’s story GET INVOLVED Wales and Scotland Conservation success and challenges at 45 Feedback Rhug Estate Letters to the Editor setting out their rural 22 The future of Scotland’s land 46 Flying high policies for you.” Scottish Land & Estates on new land Our Falconry for Schools project thrills reform legislation youngsters wherever it goes Other positive work in progress includes 25 A land based education 49 Events Falconry for Schools (p46) bringing Liam Stokes offers advice to teens interested in a From Badminton to Peterborough, the dates feathered friends to the classroom and my rural career you need to know own recent trip to Italy to try to help Italian 28 Carna believe it 50 My Countryside lady fl yfi shers develop an Italian version of Scotland’s West Coast project offers the ultimate The passions of Mike Forbes, rural businessman, our inspiring Casting for Recovery fl y fi shing digital detox farmer and Scottish fl y fi shing international programme for ladies with breast cancer. The magazine also includes news, 24-hour Countryside Alliance Fax Countryside Alliance events, letters and a unique pigeon recipe legal hotline Ireland 020 7793 8484 magazine is published 0871 919 3505 [email protected] four times a year from our Game to Eat campaign. I hope Chairman 02892 639911 Website on behalf of Simon Hart MP Insurance hotline countryside-alliance.org the Countryside you enjoy this issue and that you vote 0871 919 9172 Scottish Countryside Alliance by BPG Media Chief Executive Alliance Email 01476 859849 where you can, buy British and continue to Tim Bonner Campaigns infosca@scottishcountry info@countryside- www.bpgmedia.co.uk 020 7840 9250 sidealliance.org alliance.org support our rural economy and way of life. EditorJill Grieve 0131 335 0200 Events Advertising Publisher and fundraising By post Charlie Coups BPG Media 020 7840 9298 Countryside Alliance, Bethan Watson Jill Grieve, Editor 1 Spring Mews c.coups@bpgmedia. Membership hotline PR and media Tinworth Street co.uk Follow me on Twitter @CAupdates 020 7840 9300 020 7840 9220 London SE11 5AN 01476 859838 An osprey on the Rothiemurchus Estate by Aviemore on Speyside, on Speyside, Aviemore by Estate on the Rothiemurchus An osprey photo: Cover Laurie Campbell www.lauriecampbell.com by photographed

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 3

3 Contents se OK.indd 3 23/02/2016 10:55 ➺ 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

Welcome from our Chief Executive

2016 is an important year for the countryside with the devolved Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament and Police & Crime Commissioners elections in the offi ng, alongside many local council elections. The Countryside Alliance, ever vocal, has created manifestos HUNTING outlining our key issues for the rural communities of Wales and Scotland, Hunting rides high as well as priorities for rural police. Please keep an eye on our website for updates on polling as well as despite extreme weather the chance for you to lobby your candidates and ask them to back Polling across England, Scotland and Wales our manifestos. give reason to be cheerful “Digital UNTS WENT INTO the Christmas Meanwhile our own survey of hunting engagement has period buoyed by the collapse of in England and Wales showed that 83% H the last Hunting Act prosecution of hunts have the same number or more swiftly become involving a registered hunt. Three subscribers since the Hunting Act. In a central part of days into a scheduled 10-day trial December we also did some polling of at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court, the Scottish voters ahead of Lord Bonomy’s life and we have private prosecutors, the League Against review of the framework surrounding the embraced it.” Cruel Sports, withdrew all evidence. Protection of Wild Mammals (Scotland) The court had sought confi rmation Act 2002 (due to end in late March), and Digital engagement has swiftly from absent LACS acting Chief Executive found that not a single one of the 1,041 become a central part of life and Rachel Newman, a qualifi ed solicitor, that people surveyed raised hunting as the we have embraced it as surely as she had advised expert witness Professor most infl uential issue which will affect have all political parties, with great Stephen Harris not to disclose a close the way they vote. Compared to 16 other success. Thousands of you took personal relationship between himself issues, hunting was the least infl uential part in the recent European fi rearms and LACS Head of Operations Paul with just 2% saying hunting would have e-lobby run through the umbrella Tillsley. Professor Harris had also the decisive impact on their vote in sporting organisation FACE and we been accused of embellishing May’s elections. hope thousands more will join us his experience of hunting whilst The media was fi lled with images of in lobbying politicians ahead of giving evidence. Rather crowds supporting their the elections. than answer these very “83% of hunts local packs on Boxing While email and social media serious questions LACS have the same Day giving the lie to are a big part of our future they are withdrew charges. dubious LACS claims a means, not an end in themselves. On the back of this, number or more that the Hunting Act is For the Alliance that end will always an editorial in The Times subscribers.” well supported. be a living, working countryside in early December In January, former where we are all free to take part in stated: “Britain’s last outstanding hunt nursery nurse Megan Thornbury was given all legitimate activities. prosecution collapsed in a £100,000 sink 80 hours community service after she Tim Bonner of ignominy. Country sports enthusiasts was convicted of three separate assaults Chief Executive are justifi ably calling for at least seven on hunt supporters in Herefordshire, Follow Tim on Twitter related convictions to be reviewed.” including one on a 15-year-old boy. @CA_TimB

4 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

4-5, 7, News mb AH OK.indd 4 22/02/2016 13:26 SPONSOREDSPO NSO RED BY

t: +44(0)1488 689 788 e: [email protected] For all your sporting requirements www.roxtons.com

SHOOTING The Quarter The Law Commission’s OUR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST THREE MONTHS Wildlife Review DECEMBER

fact, make the law more complex and ● We welcomed Defra’s risk making essential management commitment to “rural practices unlawful. proof” its policies, i.e. We support the need to simplify ensuring government and consolidate wildlife legislation in departments’ policies take into account England and Wales. However, we feel specifi c issues faced by rural communities. an opportunity was missed to go back We also agreed with Defra’s announcement to fi rst principles and create wildlife law that it does not wish to reopen the based on logic, science and evidence. European Birds and Habitats Directives. IN NOVEMBER THE Countryside We also believe that some of what ● We also reacted to Ofcom’s Connected Alliance welcomed The Law is being proposed could have serious Nations 2015 report which shows that the Commission’s review of wildlife law and consequences for shooting, and much reach of broadband has risen across the the publication of its recommendations work is needed if any resulting law is UK over the past year. We warned that to consolidate swathes of legislation in to be workable, both in conserving it is still clear that rural areas are still England and Wales. wildlife and supporting those who lagging behind. There is much to be commended manage the countryside. in the report, which has profound We will be looking at the detail and JANUARY implications for shooting and wildlife implications of the report, and look management. However, there are areas, forward to continuing to work with the which far from making the law clearer Government to develop a legislative for those shooters, farmers and keepers structure that ensures the long-term who have to operate under it, could, in future and conservation of our wildlife.

GUNDOGS Microchipping laws to come ● Liam Stokes joined the Countryside into force Alliance as Head of Shooting. Liam has taught gamekeeping and wildlife This spring it becomes management at Wiltshire College Lackham compulsory to have all dogs for the past six-and-a-half years, whilst also microchipped. This is an running Lackham Shoot, overseeing grey easy and harmless procedure partridge reintroduction and a brown trout providing pets and recovery project amongst other things. working dogs with lifetime identifi cation. Each chip has FEBRUARY its own code that is revealed when scanned by a vet which ● The judges hit the road correlates to owner’s details to judge the Rural Oscars,

on a database. The British Morgan Alex Photo: and a great celebration Veterinary Association has of Welsh business was said: From 6 April in England and information on the legislation as well held at Cardiff Bay. Welsh Wales (and in Scotland at a date as posters for veterinary reception Champions now go forward to April’s to be confi rmed), failure to have areas can be found at www.bva.co.uk/ Winners’ Reception at the House of Lords. your dog microchipped or to not microchipping. Useful information ● As part of FACE UK we launched a update your database details can can also be found on Twitter using new e-lobby of MEPs to raise concerns lead to a fi ne of up to £500. More the hashtag #ChipMyDog. about fi rearms proposals. More on www. countryside-alliance.org.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 5

4-5, 7, News mb AH OK.indd 5 22/02/2016 15:25 CASHMERE-MIX JUMPERS SKY ONLY SAVE £30 £ (WAS £60) 30 CREW We are delighted to offer Countryside Alliance readers OR a unique opportunity to purchase any of our classic V-NECK cashmere mix jumpers, in a choice of crew or v-neck, for just £30 each, half the original price. 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 (up to 36-38”), M (39-42”),L (43-44”), XL (45-48”), XXL (49-50”).

CUSTOMER REVIEW “Loved the colour, fit and well impressed with the quality”

SKY GREY CREW NECK BVK38SK CREW NECK BVK38GY V-NECK BVK39SK V-NECK BVK39GY

LODEN NAVY CREW NECK BVK38LD CREW NECK BVK38NY V-NECK BVK39LD V-NECK BVK39NY

PINK LEMON CREW NECK BVK38PN CREW NECK BVK38LE V-NECK BVK39PN V-NECK BVK39LE

0871 911 7044* * Calls cost 13 pence per minute from a standard BT landline. tailored quality outstanding prices Calls from other networks and mobiles may vary. QUOTE 59180 www.samuel-windsor.co.uk/59180

Post to: Samuel Windsor (59180), PO Box 87, Brecon, LD3 3BE I enclose a cheque for £...... made payable to SAMUEL WINDSOR ITEM DESCRIPTION COLOUR SIZE CODE QTY TOTAL OFFER (59180). Please write your name and address on the back of your cheque. Alternatively, please debit my Visa/Master Card/Switch/Maestro card: Mr/Mrs/Ms: Initials: Surname: P&P £5.95 Address: Total Postcode: Tel No: PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH. Offer subject to availability. Please allow up to 7 working days for delivery. If you are not completely satisfi ed with your purchase then return the item to us within 30 days, worn or unworn, and we will refund you, no questions asked. Any unsuitable item can be returned Card No: using our returns service – details supplied with every order. Please note a signature is required upon delivery. Switch Issue No: Valid from date: Our 'was' pricing refers to the original selling prices off ered on our website www.swshoes.co.uk, and in our retail store between 30th November 2015 and 29rd February 2016 (items sold at 'was' prices represent the lower proportion of sales). 59180 Expiry date: Security Code*: *Last 3 digits on back of card

Samuel Windor jumpers.indd 1 16/02/2016 12:28 SPONSOREDSPO NSO RED BY NewsNews t: +44(0)1488 689 788 e: [email protected] www.roxtons.com For all your sporting requirements

SHOOTING The Country Sportsman’s Help Fieldsports tot up rural generosity

Record Book & Journal Fieldsports Conceived by the late Shooting behind the capture of each bird would Magazine has Times writer and countryman John have been completely different. asked the Humphreys, and superbly illustrated by So John acquired a leather-bound question: John Paley, the Record cash ledger, designed “how much Book & Journal was his own sporting does the originally published diary and copied into it countryside in 1988. Along with a the entries from community conventional the discarded volume. actually day-to-day diary, a He continued to keep collectively sporting journal a journal for the rest of raise each is unique as it is the his life. year for various owner who is writing John had started charities in the the story. Every January writing Volume Five UK?” Whether for 1 a new diary is begun. before he died; the Air Ambulance or This latest edition his sons David and Forage Aid, Help for Heroes is back by popular Peter keep their own or Cancer Research, we know demand and produced journals and grandson country people are generous to the same high Max started his own fundraisers. Fieldsports is fi nding standard and format. aged eight – on the out just how generous and has Each double page day he caught his created an online totaliser which features two vignettes by John Paley, fi rst salmon in the company of his will tally how much money has and a brief quotation from the writings grandfather, father and uncle. It is been raised from various events of renowned sportsmen. fi tting that as this new edition is around the UK in 2016. As well As a boy, John was given a game book published a new granddaughter, Millie, as the rising totaliser, they will by a kind aunt, keen to encourage him has arrived. Hopefully in the future include a list of all the events to write about his adventures. It was she will enjoy reading the sporting that have occurred. Submissions a traditional, estate shooting record adventures of the grandfather she can be emailed to totaliser@ book with the usual columns for the never met. fi eldsportsmagazine.com along date, place, companions, species, with the total amount raised. etc. John came to realise that the More at: www.fi eldsports Buy the book at www.arperangling number 2 in the ‘Pheasants’ column magazine.com/Charity/ books.co.uk/thecountrysportsmans was indistinguishable from the 2 in the fi eldsports-countryside- recordbook.html same column the previous November, community-charity-support.html Priced at £34 + £6 p&p. although the story and the tactics

GAME FAIR Countryside Alliance members get 25% off tickets for The Game Fair

This July, the familiar and beautiful access and extra benefi ts. We look to cookery Festival of the Great surroundings of Ragley Hall will forward to coming to Ragley and workshops and British Countryside welcome crowds to The Game Fair seeing many of our members and lively debates from 29th-31st July and members of friends in our area there.” and discussions in The Game the Countryside Alliance will benefi t The show will provide a fantastic Fair Theatre. from the special Association Guest day out with many interactive Camping and glamping are on Pass with savings of 25%. elements. Have-a-go stands on offer – to book passes and camping, Tim Bonner, Chief Executive of the shooting line with EJ Churchill, visit www.gamefair.org and follow The Countryside Alliance said: “We or The IM Group 4x4 experience, instructions or call the membership are pleased to work with the Game as well as a variety of fi shing and hotline on 0844 776 7777. Follow on Fair to offer our members affordable gundog demonstrations in addition Twitter @TheGameFair

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 7

4-5, 7, News mb AH OK.indd 7 22/02/2016 15:26 The all-new celebration of ƂGNFURQTVUCPFEQWPVT[NKHG Friday 10th to Sunday 12th June 2016

The Best, On Show Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire

• Leading English & International Gunmakers • Shooting Accessories & Equipment • Gamekeeping & Estate Management • Falconry • Game Fishing Village • Gundogs • Shooting Line • Stalking • Real Food Fair • Clothing & Footwear • Sporting Art & Sculpture • The Retail Experience In the heart of Oxfordshire countryside, the spectacular Cornbury Park Estate is the perfect venue for the ground-breaking new Field & Country Fair; VJGnOWUVCVVGPFoGXGPVHQTGXGT[QPGYJQKURCUUKQPCVGCDQWVƂGNFURQTVU and country pursuits. Visit www.countryside-alliance.org for special member ticket offer. YYYƂGNFCPFEQWPVT[HCKTEQO Brought to you by

Field and Country Fair.indd 1 18/02/2016 11:20 FEATURE COMMENT What’s in a name? ➺ TIM BONNER examines the special sort of media hysteria reserved for wild animals who are given names.

f anthropomorphism were not found him in poor condition one winter enough of a threat to logical and delivered a humane end. debate about wildlife management, When one of these very large deer was a new and extreme version of this shot just off the North Devon link road in unhelpfulI trait is taking hold: naming wild 2010 it was reported as the death of the animals. From the ‘Exmoor Emperor’, ‘Exmoor Emperor’ by a local tour guide a red deer stag, to various birds of prey, who was nearby. The ‘Emperor’ instantly “IT IS DISGRACEFUL THAT to ‘Cecil the lion’, animals with names became ‘Britain’s largest wild animal’ and a HEN HARRIERS ARE STILL attract a special sort of lunacy. ‘trophy worth £1,000s’. Culling stags during KILLED, BUT DOES IT MAKE I am certainly not going to argue here the rut was criticised, which will have THE CRIME WORSE, OR MORE for the hunting of iconic big cats with been of interest to every deer manager in IMPORTANTLY MAKE IT EASIER a bow and arrow, an activity most of us Scotland, and all sorts of fi ctions fi lled the TO STOP THAT CRIME, IF THE involved in hunting and shooting in the newspapers and airwaves. BIRD HAS A NAME?” UK would at the very least have serious Pointing out that hundreds of doubts about, but the worldwide hysteria thousands of deer are shot in the UK generated by ‘Cecil’s’ death is out of all every year, and that we are still not killing worse, or more importantly make it easier proportion to reason. On a day when enough to limit the damage done by the to stop that crime, if the bird has a name? millions of wild animals would have burgeoning population of cervids, could The annual return of an osprey to its died because they came into confl ict not even start to cut through the reams of breeding site from Africa is one of the with man, or because man wanted to eat nonsense caused by the death of one of wonders of nature but should we really them, it was only one animal with a mane their kind with a name. appreciate them more because someone and a name that apparently mattered. In Indeed it is clear that campaigners has decided to call them Odin or Millie, as response, the animal rights movement’s have latched on to the power of naming RSPB staff at Loch Garten have? response would be to say that ‘Cecil’s’ animals and have started to bestow Worryingly, some of us have adopted death highlighted the plight (it is always names on raptors, especially hen harriers. this habit and are regular visitors to the a ‘plight’) of African lions, but it would be This practice is supported by the fi tting Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust’s equally valid to suggest that the focus on of trackers on particular animals which (GWCT) website where we can track the one named animal had much more to do allows them to be identifi ed. Without movement of no less than 28 named with campaigning than conservation. tracking technology, only animals that woodcock as they migrate from the Another classic example of the were particularly rare or distinctive could UK to the farthest corners of Eastern nonsense generated by branded beasts be regularly identifi ed, although Peter Europe and back. Taking a sustainable comes from much closer to home. Scott did pioneer the identifi cation of harvest of wild bird species that we love The ‘Exmoor Emperor’ was a stag that Bewick’s Swans by the unique pattern of and admire has always been a slightly generated acres of news stories, most yellow and black on their bills and those contradictory activity, but one which is of which were embarrassingly ignorant. that returned annually to Slimbridge entirely defensible. I am not sure how Indeed the ‘Emperor’ was probably not inevitably, therefore, collected names. I would react if one of these days a single deer but an amalgam of big stags It is disgraceful that hen harriers are a successful shot saw the dog retrieving used to promote photographers and still killed, but does it make the crime a woodcock with a tracking device and wildlife tour operators on the edge of a name, Wensum, Garth or Olwen, whose Exmoor. North Devon produces plenty life history is mapped and recorded. of very large stags with good genes Whether you are the GWCT supplemented by good grass and maize. understandably seeking to attract When I farmed in the area there were funding for your research, an Exmoor always a few well known characters tour guide looking for publicity, or an and one, which had a massive span, was animal rights activist furthering your admired for years before a local keeper campaign, bestowing a name on a wild animal takes it from being an anonymous member of a population, to an individual Tim Bonner is Chief Executive of the Countryside which we immediately start to treat as Alliance. He is an experienced if it were a pet or even a child. Whilst conservationist and sportsman we should treat all animals humanely, who has long called for calm giving wild animals the sort of rights common sense in the wildlife we should reserve for humans is a very management debate. dangerous path. ●

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 9

9 Tim JH OK.indd 9 17/02/2016 17:45 TATTERSALL GRAMPIAN SHIRTS ONLY SAVE £30 £20 (WAS £50) We are delighted to offer Countryside Alliance magazine readers the chance to purchase any of our 100% cotton tattersall shirts for £20, saving £30 on the original price. Combining traditional English check designs with seasonal colours, our range of 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 and available in long and short sleeves. Machine washable at 30°. All Samuel Windsor clothing includes a 30-day no quibble worn or unworn guarantee. Sizes (to fit chest): Small (up to 37”), Medium (38-41”), Large (42-45”), X Large (46-49”), XX Large (50-52”).

CUSTOMER REVIEW “Good quality shirts – well made and great designs.”

GRAMPIAN MENDIP SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163GR SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163ME LONG-SLEEVE BVS162GR LONG-SLEEVE BVS162ME LONG OR CHILTERN DERWENT SHORT SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163CH SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163DE LONG-SLEEVE BVS162CH LONG-SLEEVE BVS162DE SLEEVE

HEREFORD MONMOUTH SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163HE SHORT-SLEEVE BVS163MO LONG-SLEEVE BVS162HE LONG-SLEEVE BVS162MO

*

0871* Calls cost 13 pence per minute from a standard911 BT landline. 7044 QUOTE tailored quality outstanding prices Calls from other networks and mobiles may vary. 57179 www.samuel-windsor.co.uk/57179

Post to: Samuel Windsor (57179), PO Box 87, Brecon, LD3 3BE I enclose a cheque for £...... made payable to SAMUEL WINDSOR OFFER (57179). CODE SIZE QTY TOTAL Please write your name and address on the back of your cheque. Alternatively, please debit my Visa/Master Card/ Tattersall Shirts Switch/Maestro card: Tattersall Shirts Mr/Mrs/Ms: Initials: Surname: P&P £5.95 Address: Total Postcode: Tel No: PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH. Offer subject to availability. Please allow up to 7 working days for delivery. If you are not completely satisfi ed with your purchase then return the item to us within 30 days, worn or unworn, and Card No: we will refund you, no questions asked. Any unsuitable item can be returned using our returns service – details supplied with every order. Please note a signature is required upon delivery. Our ‘was’ pricing Switch Issue No: Valid from date: refers to the original selling prices offered on our website www.swshoes.co.uk, and in our retail store between 23rd November 2015 and 23rd February 2016. 57179 Expiry date: Security Code*: *Last 3 digits on back of card

Samuel Windor shirts.indd 1 16/02/2016 11:57 FEATURE TERROR THREAT Ensuring Europe gets it right on shooting ➺ JACK KNOTT assesses the possible impact on shooting that an increased terror threat brings to Europe and why we must all stand together for legitimate shooting interests.

ollowing the horrifi c Paris “THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE, This measure would prohibit a whole terror attacks in November ALONG WITH THE EUROPEAN sub category of fi rearms that had 2015, it was obvious that FIELDSPORTS UMBRELLA been obtained and registered in full improvements needed to be BODY, FEDERATION OF compliance. In the UK this will result Fmade to increase the security and combat ASSOCIATIONS OF HUNTING in the immediate ban of certain .22 the growing threat of terrorism and AND CONSERVATION (FACE), rimfi re rifl es that ‘resemble’ weapons radicalisation within the European Union. BELIEVES THAT A NEW with automatic mechanisms. These .22 The European Commission was left with DIRECTIVE SHOULD BE MADE semi-automatic rifl es are in widespread no option other than to act quickly on TO COMBAT CRIMINALS use in the UK for pest control (mostly this threat and respond to the public’s AND TERRORISTS.” rabbit shooting) and for target sports. fears and questions. They possess the same technical In fairness the European Commission specifi cations as any other category should be congratulated for proposing having no effect on the opportunities for B fi rearm, and should therefore not a number of measures that will be criminals to get hold of and use illegal be classed as more dangerous than truly benefi cial, including increased fi rearms. The old saying ‘the easiest group any other semi-automatic fi rearm. communication between member states to legislate against are those that are The Countryside Alliance vehemently regarding stolen fi rearms and the trade of licensed’ springs to mind. objects to such a ban as this move legal fi rearms and increasing the standard The 1991 Firearms Directive had is based on unclear criteria with no of deactivation to the current UK laws. the aim of securing the trade and set defi nition of ‘resemble’, with the We are, of course, fully supportive of increasing the market for legal fi rearms results being disproportionate and these moves and will assist where across the European Union. The not technically justifi ed. Finland and we can. Directive was, however, not intended Lithuania have already stated that they Sadly, however, there are also proposed to handle an escalating terror threat. will opt-out or seek legal judgements changes to the Firearms Directive which The Countryside Alliance, along with on this proposal, arguing that their will have absolutely no impact on the the European fi eldsports umbrella body countries’ reservists need access to this illegal activities of criminals but will mean Federation of Associations for Hunting category of weapon for national defence. massive restrictions for legal fi rearms and Conservation (FACE, of which we Austria, Germany and Slovakia have also holders in the UK, even more so thanks to are a part), believes that a new Directive come out strongly against the proposed the already restrictive laws in the UK. should be made to combat criminals move to Category A. Further proposals The knee-jerk nature of this reaction and terrorists. put forward by the Commission include can be seen in the fact that the proposals Take for example the fact the European standard medical tests for all renewals to the Firearms Directive, which were Commission wishes to see a fi ve-year and grants, removing the exemption meant to be brought out in mid-2016, ceiling on licence lengths. Even though of under-18s to acquire a fi rearm, and were actually released just fi ve days after both shooting organisations and the the banning of Category A deactivated the November Paris attacks. It is our police are in agreement regarding an fi rearms. We have already raised all the view that the desire to act quickly by the extension of the licence, we feel that necessary issues with MEPs, MPs, the European Commission will, if it continues, because member states already determine Home Offi ce and you, our members. have a massive effect on both the game whether a person is fi t to possess fi rearms We are now working alongside and target shooting communities whilst through medical and criminal checks, a number of shooting organisations it should therefore also be within their in this country and around Europe to competency to determine the duration make sure that every MEP understands of possession. This holds true with the the potential consequences of these Jack Knott works on the current European set-up where licence knee-jerk proposals. ● frontline of the shooting duration varies widely. campaign, monitoring all Another example is the Commission’s political activity relevant to shooting, representing proposal to move the vaguely defi ned To lobby your MEPs to safeguard shooting interests in the “semi-automatic fi rearms for civilian legitimate shooting interests media and also promoting use which resemble weapons with please go to the website the eating of game via our automatic mechanisms”, which currently Game to Eat campaign. www.countryside-alliance.org fall under category B7, to category A.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 11

11 Firearms MC OK.indd 11 17/02/2016 17:54 FEATURE HUNTING

George Adams – the Huntsman’s Huntsman ➺ As George Adams retires after 35 seasons of service to the Fitzwilliam, GEORGE BOWYER looks back at the career of a truly great fox hunter.

here are not a lot of fi eld than he ever did in the geography professional members of hunt classroom. When George did turn up for staff who manage to rack up a lesson, Ray’s only comment was “Well, 35 seasons of service with the what sort of a day did you have, then?” sameT hunt, but this is what George Adams George’s winters were spent hunting has achieved with the Fitzwilliam (Milton) with the United and the South Shropshire, Hunt, 32 of them as huntsman. amongst others, and his summers out George, born June 8, 1951, did not, with the Border Counties with Ray Childs, in the words of the cliché, come from huntsman Ray Williams, and others, ‘traditional hunting stock’. His father was including Ian Coghill. a boilersmith and welder and his mother Following on from his earlier visits,

worked on a local farm – although she George used to go and help out at the Meeks/Horse and Hound Trevor Photo: did walk puppies in her youth. They lived United kennels, working for Bob Boswell kennels at the ripe old age of 14. in Shropshire in the village of Snailbeach, and Mrs Gurney Fry, often staying for At the age of 15, George was offered home from Roman times until the 1950s of a week at a time in the holidays. One a chance to go to Badminton as a groom the most productive lead mine in Europe. week, when Bob went abroad for a job for Sid Bird, but after some deliberation George followed the South Shropshire as interview, he felt confi dent enough with turned it down and instead took a job on a schoolboy, cadging lifts with local friends George to leave him in charge of the a local farm breeding pedigree Hereford and later started spending much of his free show bulls. time in the kennels there, with huntsman “…HE HAS SHOWN SPORT When George passed his driving test he Jack Warburton and terrierman Jim Pugh. TO A LARGE NUMBER OF started doing terrier work for Mike Rowson Snailbeach was also the home of MOUNTED AND OTHER at the South Shropshire. This led to his fi rst Mike Rowson, (later huntsman of the FOLLOWERS, AS WELL AS job in hunt service, spending a season as South Shropshire) who was hunting his MAKING AND MAINTAINING terrierman/fencer to the Cheshire Forest. own bobbery pack of assorted harriers MANY FRIENDSHIPS WITHIN This was the start of George’s traditional (from the Montgomeryshire Harriers), THE WIDER HUNTING AND apprenticeship in hunt service. He beagles and a few terriers. George started FARMING COMMUNITY.” SIR spent a season as terrierman to the whipping-in to Mike from an early age PHILIP NAYLOR-LEYLAND, South Shropshire; two seasons with Jack and Mike proved to be not only a life-long SENIOR JOINT-MASTER Battersby as kennelman to the Badsworth; friend, but also one of the most important three seasons as fi rst whipper-in to David infl uences on George’s own hunting career. George’s second stroke of luck was that he went to Meole Brace School in Shrewsbury, where he was taught geography by Ray Childs. Well, that was the theory, anyway. In practice, Ray was also the fi eld master of the Border Counties Otterhounds, and George ended up spending more time in the hunting

George Bowyer – Master of the Fitzwilliam for 13 years, George has spent a lifetime in hunting and is a passionate campaigner in defence of the Photo: Claire Wright rural way of life. Singer of Above: George and wife Sue. “Guardians of the Land” many of Left: George with ‘Bretton’, you will remember George in fi ne Champion Unentered Dog voice at the Hyde Park Rally and at Peterborough Royal other demonstrations. Foxhound Show, July 2015. Photo: Jim Meads Photo:

12 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

12-13 fitz JH v2.indd 12 23/02/2016 14:45 FEATURE HUNTING

“WHEREVER, THEY HAVE GONE, THE REACTION HAS ALMOST UNIVERSALLY BEEN, “GOD, THOSE HOUNDS CAN HUNT!” THAT IS A VERDICT WHICH SUMS UP THE HUNTSMAN WHO PRODUCED THEM AS MUCH AS IT DOES THE HOUNDS THEMSELVES.”

Anker at the South Notts and then two seasons as fi rst whipper-in to Stuart Blackburn at the Bramham Moor. Formative years with the South Notts, In 1981, George was appointed George as fi rst whipper-in and as fi rst whipper-in to Tom Teanby hunstman David Anker on the right. at the Fitzwilliam (Milton) Hunt. Mead Frank Photo: Two and a half seasons later, have gone on to be huntsmen, including Tom was tragically killed in a Glen Westmoreland, Tim Taylor, Stuart riding accident and George was Trousdale, Bill Bishop, Ben Skilbeck and asked to carry the horn for the now, of course, Simon Hunter who will be Fitzwilliam – a role that he has taking over from George on May 1. Added since continued to fi ll with quiet to this is a list of amateur huntsmen of professionalism for 32 seasons. other packs who started their hunting

Trevor Meeks/Horse and Hound Trevor Photo: Senior joint master, Sir careers as children with the Fitzwilliam, Philip Naylor-Leyland summed including Andrew Sallis (East Sussex and up George’s achievements Romney Marsh), Ollie Dale (Ludlow) and very succinctly. “During this Stephen Hill and Phillip Baker (Granta extraordinarily long and illustrious Reading Tom Photo: Harriers). service he has shown sport to a large – I found myself watching him cast hounds When comparing huntsmen, as hunters number of mounted and other followers, in some unexpected direction, thinking do, it is often diffi cult to prove that as well as making and maintaining many ‘What on earth are you wasting your time someone shows good sport because friendships within the wider hunting and over there for?’ only to see hounds strike they are good at what they do and not farming community.” the line and go screaming off in full cry. just because they have good country For fox hunters, as we were before Fortunately, being wise enough to keep my in which to do it. Over the years, the the ban and hope to be again, the fi rst thoughts to myself, I usually got to eat my Fitzwilliam hounds have been invited to element of that is the most important, and humble pie by myself. hunt the countries of the Flint & Denbigh, George is a proper hunting huntsman, in James Barclay, joint master for 12 the Quorn, the Cottesmore, the Royal his best season accounting for 74½ brace. seasons, commented on the second Artillery, the Warwickshire, the Oakley, the When hunting people talk about “good element. “George is one of the most Woodland Pytchley, the VWH, the Vale of huntsmen” there are many attributes that popular hunt professionals of his era. Very Aylesbury, the Fernie, the West Norfolk, they rank and compare. For me, one of the good with both farmers and followers, full the Puckeridge & Thurlow, the Grove & most important is having “fox sense” – the of charm with an infectious smile. And Rufford and the Badsworth. Wherever ability to understand and think like your this translated down to the hounds and they have gone, the reaction has almost quarry. This George has in spades. how they liked him and worked for him as universally been, “God, those hounds can On more than one occasion whilst well. I was very privileged that he looked hunt!” That is a verdict which sums up the I was fi eld master of the Fitzwilliam, when after my own hounds when I had them at huntsman who produced them as much as hounds needed a bit of help – something Milton, and took as good care of them as it does the hounds themselves. ● that George does not do too soon, unlike he did of his own.” so many inexperienced huntsmen One of George’s legacies is the people whom he has helped and inspired along the The George Adams Testimonial Fund way. Whippers-in who committee are coordinating the fund-raising effort for George’s fund to which any donations are welcome. Please donate either via bank transfer sort code: 20 67 40 account Tom Reading Tom Photo: no: 53280861 or send cheques made payable to ‘GATF’ to Grant Hawkins, Keystone House, East Road, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4BX

George with granddaughters Izzy and Eve Reading, who both competed at HOYS in 2015. www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRSSPSPRINGPRPRININGINNGG 220201600116 l COCCOUNTRYSIDEOUNTUUNNNTTRYRYSYSIDEIIDDDEE AALALLIANCELLIALLIIANNCCCEE 1313

12-13 fitz JH v2.indd 13 23/02/2016 14:45 FEATURE CASTING FOR RECOVERY Cancer has no borders – neither does fl y fi shing ➺ JILL GRIEVE reports that Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland is all set to conquer mainland Europe as Italian fl y fi shers plan their fi rst retreat.

hen an invitation warmly by Laura, by Daniela Ferrando, comes asking you to a sea angling journalist who wants to talk about one of your play an integral part in the project, favourite projects to Massimo Maggiani, of the Italian National Wan enthusiastic new audience, it is only Fly Fishing Association and many of his polite to accept. When that invitation colleagues – all equally keen to be a part comes from Italian fl y fi shers and involves of the project. We were also welcomed by a trip to Tuscany, then really the only oncologists from the local hospital who question is when the next fl ight might be. were intrigued to fi nd out more about So it was that fi eldsports’ this previously unheard of having fun. If people have fun, they learn global appeal came into sharp project. My presentation was and enjoy the process. That is what we relief in January, when I fl ew delivered with simultaneous try to promote and I hope achieve.” Sally’s to Pisa at the invitation of the translation and while we coaching credentials were certainly put Alleanza Pescatori Ricreativi didn’t necessarily understand to the test when she was handed a rod – or Recreational Angling exactly what we were saying and invited to show her casting style on Alliance – to attend a trade to each other, our photos of a 30m indoor casting pool in the centre show in Carrara to tell them all about ladies enjoying the retreats and smiling of the trade show. Clearly passing that Casting for Recovery UK & Ireland (CfR), broadly while on the bankside proved to particular test, good humoured as it was, the unique form of therapy for ladies with be a universal language. The medics were she was then afforded the honour of breast cancer that blends counselling, particularly impressed that the project helping to judge a fl y tying competition. medical advice and fl y fi shing. gets ladies away from the hospital where Again, the global appeal of fi eldsports Laura Pisano of the Alleanza Pescatori cancer support groups and activities are was very much in evidence, and Sally Ricreativi had spotted the programme traditionally run. We all agreed that fresh and Massimo scrutinised each entry and on Facebook and, with an eye on air, light exercise and the casting motion agreed completely on the winning set. encouraging ladies into the traditionally all contribute to what can easily be I very much hope we have started male dominated sport of fl y fi shing, she described as therapy for body and mind. the ball rolling for the Italian fl y fi shing contacted us to fi nd out more about the and medical community as they seek to retreat programme, why it works and “IT HAS ALWAYS STRUCK ME import our beloved programme. Having how it might work in Italy. Laura busied WHILE WORKING ON CASTING reported back to the original Casting for herself with fi nding support to bolster FOR RECOVERY THAT THE Recovery project in the United States, all her plan and when I arrived, alongside KINDNESS, GENEROSITY AND the signs are positive and we hope that CfR long-term CfR supporters and casting GOODWILL OF FISHERMEN Italia can run its fi rst retreat next year. As instructors Sally and Tony Pizii, it quickly CANNOT BE OVERSTATED, AND I told the assembled group: “The European became clear that it was “when” not “if” THAT WAS ALSO TRUE IN ITALY.” Parliament confi rms that breast cancer is CfR Italia could be formed. It has always the leading cause of death in European struck me while working on CfR that women aged 35 to 59, so it is sadly true the kindness, generosity and goodwill of Of course, one of the therapeutic that there are no shortage of ladies who fi shermen cannot be overstated, and that benefi ts of CfR is laughter, always very could benefi t from what the Casting for was also true in Italy. We were greeted much in evidence despite the seriousness Recovery model can offer. Cancer has no behind the lady participants’ presence on borders, so there is no reason this project retreat. Sally and Tony helped to convey should either.” Where next? ● Jill Grieve has worked that laughter at Carrara, when Sally with Casting for Recovery UK whipped out a custom-built 2ft rod and & Ireland on behalf of line with a fl uffy toy fi sh on the end of it For more on Casting for Recovery the Countryside Alliance for and, with Tony holding the fi sh at the end UK & Ireland, including how to 10 years and since last year of the line, “played” him to help explain apply to attend a retreat, visit has had the honour of being www.castingforrecovery.org.uk its Director. how the instruction side of the retreats work. As Sally says, “coaching is all about

14 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

14 JH OK.indd 14 18/02/2016 10:07 THE SPORTING SALE ENQUIRIES AND APPOINTMENTS Wednesday 18 May 2016 0131 240 0916 Edinburgh [email protected]

Bonhams Entries now invited 22 Queen Street Edinburgh EH2 1JX

HENRY MAURICE PAGE (BRITISH), 19TH CENTURY Sport from Loch and Moor Sold for £9,375

bonhams.com/sportingart Prices shown include buyer’s premium. Details can be found at bonhams.com

p15_CA_Spring16.indd 15 22/02/2016 13:32 FEATURE POLITICS

REBECCA EVANS IS THE WELSH LABOUR CANDIDATE FOR GOWER The countryside @RebeccaEvansAM Welsh Labour is committed to working and the ballot box and investing to ensure that rural ➺ May’s elections for the Welsh Assembly and the Scottish communities in Wales remain vibrant places Parliament come at a time when several vital issues are facing to live, providing residents with an our rural communities. Here, rural spokespeople for the main excellent quality of life. We want to parties set out their visions for the countryside. make sure that rural communities offer access to high quality employment, affordable housing, and public services. WILLIAM POWELL IS In this context, the key Welsh Liberal We believe that rural communities need THE WELSH LIBERAL Democrat policy pledges are to: to be sustained by reliable and effective DEMOCRATS CANDIDATE FOR MID • Maintain support to farming across infrastructure – such as broadband, & WEST WALES @WilliamPowellAM Wales in an equitable manner, bearing public transport and utilities. The Welsh Liberal in mind the needs of communities for We know that farming and food Democrats are a strong farming sector in all areas, as processing form the backbone of rural committed to CAP funding tapers down. communities, and we are committed safeguarding the • Sustain the Farming Connect to working in partnership with the farming industry, network to help farmers and sector to achieve real, transformative enabling our rural landowners to fi nd the best change to ensure that our farming communities to thrive whilst maintaining route to both profi tability and and food sector is resilient, profi table, food security. Wales has a long and proud sustainability according to their modern and professionally managed. farming heritage and we must do all situation, in particular to recognise Welsh Labour continues to we can to preserve and enhance that the importance of Field Offi cers and be the party of working people in order to secure the sector for future the harnessing of local knowledge in wherever they live and wherever generations, thus providing a livelihood building confi dence and resilience in they work in Wales. When the UK for those who are the custodians of our the farming sector. Coalition Government abolished precious natural environment. • Work with local authorities and the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB), The case to support our young National Parks to improve the the Labour Welsh Government took farming entrants is compelling. planning process for all Welsh urgent steps to legislate to retain the Farming in Wales remains an almost businesses, to minimise delays and functions of the Board. As a result, exclusively inherited occupation and provide long term support for the I was pleased to introduce a new much more needs to be done to make sustainability of entire communities. Wages Order for Wales which gave the industry accessible. Share farming is • Fundamentally review TAN 6 our lowest-paid farm workers a 6% one way in which Welsh agriculture can guidance on ‘Planning for Sustainable pay rise – their fi rst pay rise since foster new entrants into the industry, Rural Communities’ to achieve real 2012. Conversely, across the border and local authority-owned agricultural progress in the delivery of affordable in England, 30 per cent of farmers holdings also provide valuable access rural housing across Wales. in a Farmers’ Guardian survey said to the land. • Work intensively with the Farming that their wage had fallen since the Closely linked to that is the clear Unions and Young Farmers’ Clubs to abolition of the AWB. need to review TAN 6 guidance support YFC activity in rural and urban Our Rural Development on ‘Planning for Sustainable Rural areas and to take farming and food Programme (RDP) represents a Communities’ so that affordable rural production into schools across Wales. seven-year programme of serious housing is delivered across Wales, • Fully review existing agri- investment in rural Wales, worth important both for younger entrants environment schemes to ensure that hundreds of millions of pounds from as well as providing appropriate they achieve sustainable farming and the Welsh Government and European accommodation for farmers wishing to effective environmental management, Commission. As well as increasing the hand over to the next generation. and are fully funded so that farmers competitiveness of agriculture, the Also of huge importance is the are properly rewarded for the RDP will help deliver the sustainable outcome of the forthcoming European conservation work they carry out. management of our natural resources Referendum, which will be more • Further support young farming and help us take action on climate signifi cant for Welsh agriculture than any entrants in Wales with an emphasis change. We will use the investment other business sector in our country. It on the potential contribution of to support rural economies, creating is vital, both for the industry and for the share farming, and the signifi cance and maintaining jobs and growth; and sake of our food security, that we see off of local authority-owned agricultural we will make strategic investments decisively the catastrophe of a vote to holdings across Wales to provide that increase social inclusion and leave the EU. access to the land. tackle poverty.

16 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

16-18 Elections MC3 MJV2.indd 16 22/02/2016 14:11 FEATURE POLITICS

LLYR GRUFFYDD IS THE PLAID RUSSELL GEORGE IS THE WELSH planning regulations, much-needed jobs CYMRU CANDIDATE FOR THE CONSERVATIVES CANDIDATE can be generated. NORTH WALES REGION FOR MONTGOMERYSHIRE At the moment, rural communities are @LlyrGruffydd @russ_george often seen as an afterthought. A Welsh Plaid Cymru knows Living and working Conservative Government would ensure the importance of in our beautiful rural that all of its policies refl ect the distinct a thriving rural Wales, communities is both needs of our rural communities prior to not only for the a great privilege and a implementation. We would Stand up for production of high great challenge. There Rural Wales. quality food and the are specifi c issues facing Welsh Conservatives would: management of the environment, these areas, many of which have reached • Appoint a Minister for Mid & West but also as the cornerstone of our new, unbearable highs. Wales, a new position which would rural economy. Rural areas account for a third represent the specifi c needs of the That’s why Plaid Cymru will lower of the Welsh population and rural region, with an emphasis on support the business rates burden on small communities make Wales tick. We want for rural communities. rural businesses. We will also do to give them the power they deserve • Ensure that all policies are more to help attract tourists to rural and the opportunity to make their own independently assessed to evaluate Wales and provide better support for decisions. Welsh government ministers their impact on rural communities. communities that want to set up their shouldn’t be making decisions for • Properly support our dairy and red own ventures, for example to run the them. They should be providing the meat industries. village shop or save the local pub. opportunity for decisions to be made • Support a mid-term review of CAP We will work closely with at a local level, listening to views and and work with UK government farmers and other rural businesses to providing all possible support for a colleagues to generate a fairer deal ensure that the nearly £1bn of Rural bright and vibrant future. for farmers. Development Programme funding The Welsh Conservatives have • Implement specifi c proposals available is made more easily accessible innovative plans to boost support including rates relief extension, to those who need it. for rural communities. With the right a commitment to cut red tape We will also provide the agriculture support, rural Wales could be an and the opportunity for communities industry with greater support by economic powerhouse. Through the to take over the running of signifi cantly increasing the amount of responsible use of Wales’ abundant community assets. Welsh food and drink purchased by natural resources, support for our • Support measures aiming to maintain public services in Wales. farming industry, the roll out of distance- and improve Wales’ high standards of Plaid Cymru will also designate busting IT, and more enterprise-focused animal welfare. 2018 as The Year of Welsh Food and Drink – a sustained and intensive year- long campaign to encourage customers TAVISH SCOTT IS THE of the new Common Agriculture to buy more Welsh produce. SCOTTISH LIBERAL Policy. Having spent £178 million on We are committed to using the most DEMOCRATS CANDIDATE FOR a computer, we should expect it to effective measures available to control SHETLAND @tavishscott make farm payments on time. But many and eradicate bTB and will ensure that Rural communities agriculture businesses will vote on May testing and movement restrictions face a unique set of 5th without receiving their full CAP remain proportionate to the disease challenges and it is payment. That is unacceptable. status of an area. crucial that the next It’s no secret that rural areas suffer We will introduce River Scottish government from declining populations. Our Initiatives to boost fi sh numbers with takes action. communities must offer a vibrant range particular attention to sewin and The Scottish Government have of jobs to avoid losing talent to bigger salmon populations. announced a review of the Protection towns and cities. Fast access to the Plaid Cymru will not introduce of Wild Mammals (Scotland) Act. If the internet and reliable mobile phone open access to all land in Wales. review recommends a change in the coverage is taken for granted across We will support rural housing by law, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSPs will Scotland, but it is unavailable to many funding new affordable homes in small- ensure that Parliament is given a proper rural households and businesses. Further scale developments in rural Wales. chance to scrutinise the proposals. investment is needed to speed up the We will also ensure that all homes It will not be acceptable to force roll-out of affordable superfast broadband have a Superfast broadband connection changes through. and mobile phone coverage in such areas. by 2017, and are committed to I have been contacted by many Scotland’s rural communities deserve signifi cantly improving mobile phone people concerned about the future of to be heard at Holyrood, and need reception in rural areas, too. crofting. The Crofting Commission’s one- strong local MSPs who will put their We are determined to give rural size-fi ts-all approach does not recognise constituents ahead of party politics. Wales the stronger voice it deserves. the dramatic differences between The Scottish Liberal Democrats have a Plaid Cymru is the change rural and within crofting communities. proven track record of doing just that, Wales needs. Government must sort out the shambles and will in the next Parliament.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 17

16-18 Elections MC3 MJV2.indd 17 22/02/2016 14:11 FEATURE POLITICS

ALEX FERGUSSON IS THE transport operators who fi ll in the SARAH BOYACK IS THE SCOTTISH SCOTTISH CONSERVATIVE gaps and provide services for rural LABOUR CANDIDATE FOR LOTHIAN CANDIDATE FOR GALLOWAY communities and we have outlined @SarahBoyackMSP AND UPPER NITHSDALE plans to support them further. The success of our @AFergussonMSP We recognise that suitable and land-based and The Scottish affordable housing is crucial to sustain agriculture sectors Conservatives local services. We need to bring back are key to growing understand the issues or convert the swathes of empty a strong rural that concern rural properties around rural Scotland to economy. They are also communities and have be used as affordable housing. In a key part of making Scotland attractive consistently stood up addition, we will look at how to support as a tourist destination. for their interests. Although the 2016 developers interested in rural affordable While there have been some Scottish Conservative Manifesto will housing – be it through direct grants or signifi cant successes, the last year not be formally published until April, reforms in the planning system. has been particularly hard with the we are clear in our vision for Scotland’s The SNP’s land reform and dairy crisis, price volatility and the rural communities. agricultural holdings plans have recently unacceptable delays to CAP payments. Connectivity is essential to enable been changed beyond recognition We’ve also seen the impact of climate rural businesses to compete more and now pose a serious threat to our change with fl ooding and extreme effectively, provide jobs and ensure rural communities. While we support weather hitting rural businesses. the sustainability of rural communities. measures improving transparency and We need shorter supply chains, more Rolling out reliable broadband and helping community ownership, we will co-operatives, increased organic food improving mobile phone coverage to advocate measures that increase the production and procurement of Scottish rural Scotland requires both governments amount of land being let, not ones that produce in the public and private sectors. and local authorities to work together. will grind the tenancy sector to a halt. We need land use policies and We will make it a top priority to speed Policy Pledges: investment to support resilience in the process up through a range of · Improve connectivity across rural our rural communities to enable land measures, not least by working with our Scotland. managers and rural businesses to invest UK colleagues in delivering a Universal · Support the development of local with confi dence. The land reform debate Service Obligation for broadband. community transport. needs to be a catalyst for communities to Reliable transport links are crucial · Increase the supply of affordable develop new opportunities. We must also for rural Scotland. Rural communities housing. see improved infrastructure and public often pay higher delivery charges, have · Promote a vibrant tenancy sector services within our rural communities. access to less reliable transport, and and all rural businesses. Scottish Labour would use the local businesses suffer as a result. There · Hold the SNP to account on their powers of the Scottish Parliament to: are an increasing number of community CAP management failures. • Retain the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board. DR AILEEN MCLEOD IS billion of exports – up from £3.7 billion • Facilitate the overhaul of the sector’s THE SCOTTISH NATIONAL in 2007. supply chains to deliver fairer prices PARTY CANDIDATE FOR We continue to support the fi sheries for farmers. GALLOWAY AND WEST DUMFRIES sector, particularly at a European level – in • Set new targets to increase the @AileenMcLeodMSP the most recent negotiations the Fisheries procurement of Scottish produce We recognise and Secretary secured increased quotas in across the public and private sectors. value the role of our a number of key stocks. We have also • Improve access to sustainable rural economy and are legislated to enhance our aquaculture public services such as GP services committed to supporting sector and are taking forward plans for a in rural areas. its growth. That’s Wild Fisheries Bill and strategy to secure a • Strengthen our transport why we’re investing more sustainable future for the sector. infrastructure to allow for greater £1.3 billion in the Rural Development We are committed to empowering connectivity between different rural Programme to provide the basis for growth rural communities and ensuring communities. in key sectors like tourism and food and Scotland’s land is an asset that benefi ts • Develop co-operatives in rural drink. We also understand the importance the people of Scotland – and are already communities to generate new of broadband to rural communities and, halfway towards our target of one million business opportunities and with our partners, we are investing over acres of land in community ownership secure value from farming and £410 million to ensure fi bre broadband by 2020. The Community Empowerment crofting produce. access to 95% of premises by 2017-18. Act will give communities more power We continue to support both our to take on land and buildings and to have fi shing and farming industries, and a say on how their services are delivered. The elections will take place on have established initiatives to promote The Land Reform Bill also proposes Thursday 5th May. The deadline Scotland’s food and drink at home and radical changes to ensure our system to register to vote is Monday 18th abroad. Food and drink continues to be of land rights promotes fairness and April. Register online at: our top export sector, accounting for £4.8 economic prosperity for all. www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

18 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

16-18 Elections MC3 MJV2.indd 18 22/02/2016 14:11 p19_CA_Spring16.indd 19 22/02/2016 13:53 FEATURE GAMEKEEPING

Gamekeeping enriches the countryside of Wales ➺ DAVID POOLER,the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) North Wales Chairman, writes that this is not just his view, but also that of the First Minister of Wales.

his is what the top man in media. It also confi rmed to me that the Wales told the press about NGO is uniquely placed, being regarded as keepering: “It has been a professional body, to sell the keepering interesting to meet with the message to infl uential audiences. NGOT and hear about the way responsible I mention the First Minister’s shooting organisations are contributing visit – it is one of many we’ve to rural life. Their work helps to improve run for politicians across the habitats to support wildlife as well as political spectrum – because signifi cantly contributing to the wider the opportunity to talk face-to- economy, bringing much needed jobs and face with those who hold the income to rural Wales.” fate of keepering in their grasp The leader of Welsh Government, is precisely why the NGO was £16 million. The Rt. Hon Carwyn Jones AM, made his set up in 1997. Back then, a Money does matter, and comments after the National Gamekeepers’ small group of gamekeepers, nowhere more so in Wales Organisation had walked him around a who felt that their way of life was than in the hospitality industry. It’s a key keepered shoot in mid-Wales during the threatened by public misunderstanding sector of the Welsh economy and game Royal Welsh Show week a few years ago. and poor representation, decided to put shooting has its part to play in keeping a I remember the day well. It was a that right. largely seasonal industry buoyant. Shooting good-humoured affair and, standing on The NGO was born: its raison d’être certainly keeps the cash tills ringing in the rearing fi eld in the sunshine with a to defend and promote keepering and isolated pubs and hotels in deep mid- glorious patchwork of Powys countryside gamekeepers and ensure high standards winter, when other visitors have long gone disappearing into the distance, we touched throughout the profession. The old saw is home. Much of this revenue – known on all the usual keepering-related topics. spot on: oaks do grow from little acorns. jokingly hereabouts as sticky money – We covered the lot: conservation, predator Today, the NGO has a membership of stays within the community, circulating control, you name it. some 15,000, and stands up for keepers in among local people. This thumbs up by the head of our England and Wales. You could say that high pheasants Government in Wales, after seeing for How keepering is perceived in Wales give people high hopes of ensuring their himself what gamekeepers can offer the is of great interest to me – my “day” job rural communities remain vibrant. Game countryside, was quite a feather in the cap is headkeeper at the Rhug Estate Shoot shooting, underpinned by keepering, of the NGO. More importantly, it showed in Denbighshire – and I am only too well is a force for good in all sorts of social me how positively politicians will react to aware that rural issues are rarely out of the and cultural ways in Wales. It even does game shooting when away from the slop press. Which is why the NGO tries hard the unexpected, playing its part in fed to them by some lobby groups and the never to miss an opportunity to make the case for keepering when contemporary “SHOOTING IN WALES land management comes up for discussion. SUPPORTS THE EQUIVALENT So much so, we’ve scribbled tens of OF 2,500 FULL-TIME JOBS, David Pooler, the NGO thousands of words in the Welsh press on ALMOST 500 OF THEM North Wales Regional Chairman, is headkeeper at the Rhug Estate gamekeeping matters over the last few ARE FULL-TIME ACTIVE Shoot, Corwen, Denbighshire, a years, for example. CONSERVATION ROLES, AND driven pheasant and partridge The facts – the hard currency of the GENERATES ECONOMIC shoot known for its testing rural debate – should speak for themselves. ACTIVITY WORTH AROUND birds. The Rhug Estate, a mix of £75 MILLION PER YEAR. BY arable, grassland and hard- and Shooting in Wales supports the equivalent soft-timbered woodland, has an of 2,500 full-time jobs, almost 500 of them COMPARISON, THE WALES award-winning farm shop and are full-time active conservation roles, and COAST PATH, WHICH IS FÊTED holds a CA Welsh Rural Oscar. generates economic activity worth around AS A MASSIVE SUCCESS, David, who attended Sparsholt £75 million per year. By comparison, the RAKES IN A MORE MODEST College in Hampshire, has been at Rhug for almost three decades. Wales Coast Path, which is fêted as a £16 MILLION.” massive success, rakes in a more modest

20 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

20-21 NGO OK.indd 20 22/02/2016 13:09 FEATURE GAMEKEEPING Fieldsports Magazine Photo:

‘“GAMEKEEPERS ARE THE REAL, UNSUNG HEROES OF WELSH CONSERVATION…’ SIR GARETH EDWARDS, PATRON OF THE NGO.”

keeping the Welsh language alive, by creating jobs and sustaining livelihoods. What’s more it helps retain the housing stock in local ownership. Game shooting also drives conservation on about a million acres of Wales. This isn’t the nonsense, pie-in-the-sky stuff Agency Huw Evans Photo: spouted by the likes of George Monbiot, team of keepers. Without their inspired numbers slumping by 79 per cent and The Guardian columnist, who would efforts, the black grouse, an iconic 90 per cent respectively, and lapwing have upland Wales turned into a reserve species, would have effectively become became extinct locally. The life that for wolves and bears. But rather real extinct in Wales. Other groups – including keepering had breathed into upland conservation work that sustains the the RSPB and the statutory conservation Wales was snuffed out. landscape we know and love. agencies tried their best, but the statistics Keepers in Wales have a gripping story Indeed, the keepering community show it was as nothing compared with to sell, which our Patron, Sir Gareth – both full-time and amateur – can keepering. Fox snaring was important in Edwards, sums up nicely: “Gamekeepers justifi ably lay claim to being some of the turning around the fortunes of the black are the real, unsung heroes of Welsh best conservationists in Wales. Keepers grouse, a technique, which some in Wales conservation. I know from fi rst- generally go quietly about their business, are seeking to ban. Remember without hand experience that those who are developing their shoots, and nurturing snares, the black grouse would now be involved in game shooting and fi shing hares, songbirds, voles, barn owls and the history here. That’s why animal rights hold our precious countryside dear. like along the way. But it is an eye opener, issues and conservation should not A lifetime spent in rural Wales has shown for some, when our unique approach to be confused. me that the words gamekeeper and conservation – the twin-track of habitat Wildlife fares badly without keepering. conservationist are, without doubt, one improvement and predator control – hits Birds in Wales, the journal of the Welsh and the same. We must maintain these the headlines. Ornithological Society, recently reported rural skills.” ● One of the very few environmental that when driven grouse shooting ceased successes reported in the otherwise – and with it the keepering – on the To fi nd out more about Rhug, bleak environmental audit of the State Berwyn moors, in the late 1990s, many which sells its game worldwide, visit of Nature in Wales was the product of birds declined catastrophically, among www.rhug.co.uk conservation work carried out by a small them curlew and golden plover, their

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 21

20-21 NGO OK.indd 21 22/02/2016 13:09 FEATURE SCOTTISH LAND REFORM LAW Scottish land reform & ‘political point scoring’ ➺ DAVID JOHNSTONE, Chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, has concerns that new land reform law “is far too rushed for legislation of this magnitude, and has the potential to create repercussions down the line.”

ike people all over Scotland, “...THE MORE THE LAND Bill dealing with a wide range of for those who live and work REFORM DEBATE HAS topics from the creation of a Land in rural communities, spring OVERHEATED, THE MORE IT Rights and Responsibilities statement, ushers in the arrival of a fresh HAS BECOME PRIMARILY A the establishment of a Scottish Land newL season and renewed optimism for the ‘BASH THE LAIRDS’ EXERCISE.” Commission to the procedures by which year ahead. local authorities can manage common Despite the storm clouds and turbulent good land. winds that have wreaked havoc for – whether that be providing affordable One key topic in the Bill is transparency many land-based businesses during the housing, enabling local business of ownership. In September 2014, Scottish winter months, our estates and farms development, generating green energy or Land & Estates launched its Landowners’ – just like their counterparts across the providing tourism and leisure facilities. Commitment that pledged to ensure that UK – are known for their resilience in The last economic survey of a sample the ownership of land is visible and the meeting unforeseen trials with grace and of Scottish Land & Estates members forthcoming legislation builds on this. It is upbeat assurance. revealed more than 8,000 people being something we fi rmly support. Yet, it has been more than just the employed directly and the estates involved Whilst it would be wrong to say that natural elements casting a shadow over generating £300 million of expenditure in every aspect of the legislation will be rural Scotland in recent months. mostly local economies and communities. detrimental, sadly, the policy areas on As readers will know, the Scottish Sadly, the land reform agenda has which this Bill will deliver positively for Government has been embarking on the developed in such a way over the last those who live and work in rural Scotland latest round of land reform measures few years that estate owners, who see are few and far between. for the past two years. The topic caught themselves as rural business men and For example, the legislation will mainstream attention when First women, feel that, for many, the more the provide the power for Scottish Ministers Minister Nicola Sturgeon proclaimed in land reform debate has overheated, the to force the sale of privately-held land, November 2014 that she was to pursue more it has become primarily a ‘bash the including productive or well managed ‘radical’ reform as she announced her lairds’ exercise. Furthermore, the picture land, to a community where a landowner fi rst programme for government since painted of rural Scotland by the most is considered a barrier to ‘sustainable assuming offi ce from Alex Salmond. vocal land reformists does not refl ect development’. We support all forms of Over that period, members of Scottish rural life accurately. ownership – community, public and Land & Estates have been working hard The fi nal legislation will be enacted private – but can only support the sale to play their part in the political debate this spring prior to the dissolution of the of land to a community where there to ensure that the fi nal legislation Scottish Parliament ahead of the elections is a willing seller and a willing buyer. produces the best outcome possible for on May 5. The Bill will have completed Not only does this interference by the our rural areas. its journey through parliament in just state threaten the property rights of Estates are rightly proud of the 10 months, which we have repeatedly individuals, it may also bring into question contribution they make and are pointed out is far too rushed for legislation the viability of land-based businesses instrumental in helping it happen of this magnitude, and has the potential to where a community wants to purchase create repercussions down the line. land that is held by that enterprise. We One of the immediate ramifi cations hope that the fi nal legislation will bring David Johnstone is of this hurried law-making is the lack of protection to all types of rural business chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, the representative body precision which will actually be delivered but we will again need to wait to see for landowners in Scotland. He by the fi nal Act. It is expected that much what is passed into law - and how this owns and manages Annandale of the detail will be left to secondary is then put into practice. What is being Estates, near Moffat in legislation to be passed at a later date, proposed at the moment certainly fl ies in Dumfriesshire. The estate has a mixture of farming, energy, and thus, it will not be subject to proper the face of the much repeated phrase from forestry and property enterprises. parliamentary scrutiny – a point already Scottish Government Ministers that ‘good David also chairs and sits on acknowledged by the parliament’s landowners have nothing to fear’, and the board of a number of local Delegated Powers committee. the measure demonstrates this statement community groups and trusts. In total there are 10 parts to the simply isn’t true.

22 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

22-23 MC OK.indd 22 18/02/2016 09:08 FEATURE NEW LAND REFORM LAW

“WE SUPPORT ALL FORMS OF OWNERSHIP – COMMUNITY, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE – BUT CAN ONLY SUPPORT THE SALE OF LAND TO A COMMUNITY WHERE THERE IS A WILLING SELLER AND A WILLING BUYER.”

The reintroduction of non-domestic rates on sporting businesses is just as contentious, not least because there has been no thorough assessment conducted on how it will affect these companies or how much revenue it is likely to raise. This may be portrayed as a measure aimed at wealthy landowners but the reality is that rejuvenate our tenanted sector – and the actions of the government are likely to rates would have to be applied to a wide wider land reform issue – are two totally have a severely detrimental impact on variety of owners and occupiers of land separate and often contrasting matters. their business. We have been clear that and that could affect people from many And sadly, this is the portion of the Bill that the future of Scottish agriculture – and different walks of life. perhaps has the potential to create some the aspirations of the next generation Originally abolished in 1995 because of the biggest concerns going forward. looking to enter the sector – are at stake. the cost of administering the rates was as Agricultural holdings legislation is Sadly, there is no sign that this warning high as the money it was generating and hugely complex and has sadly been highly call will be heeded prior to the Bill’s mass appeals were pending, there appears politicised for some time. Richard Lochhead assent and unfortunately it is tenant now to be little evidence to support MSP, as cabinet secretary for rural affairs, farming, and new entrants in particular, a case for why the rates should now be chaired a review group that in January 2015 who will suffer the consequences. brought back more than two decades on. published a thorough review of tenant In some areas the land reform process is This is a point that has been robustly made farming legislation. Now, little more than a lacking a fi rm base of empirical evidence by the Rural Affairs committee, yet the year on, Mr Lochhead seems determined and is rooted fi rmly in ideology. How government seems determined to plough to disregard key recommendations from best we can use land for the good of on at any cost even when the knock-on that report – recommendations that were rural Scotland plays second fi ddle to how effect on many rural communities – who broadly accepted across the industry legislation can be introduced that makes are supported by the business generated – in favour of measures that won’t help life tougher for estate owners, both large by sporting estates – cannot be quantifi ed. farming, are opposed by the majority of the and small. The Bill will be passed this The last section of the Bill addresses sector, but seem to be intended to appease spring but it may be some time before the agricultural holdings, and the future of some radical voices applying pressure from full ramifi cations rain down on our rural tenant farming in Scotland. Its inclusion the side-lines. communities in years to come. The great within this land reform focused legislative The likely effect will be a complete pity is it could all be so different if we process was baffl ing from the start, not loss of confi dence amongst landlords to had a government that could see beyond least because the measures needed to let land in the future, knowing that the political point scoring. ●

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 23

22-23 MC OK.indd 23 18/02/2016 09:09 IMPORTANT NEWS FOR SEPTIC Get Ready REDUCE TANK & BIO-FILTER OWNERS... for Spring Organic Sludge by up to ON 97% SAVE £100’s SEPTIC TANK PUMP-OUTS MUCK MUNCHERS with Environmentally Friendly Safe natural Non-Chemical  Formulation  Vastly Reduces Need for Expensive Pump-Outs  Eliminates Grease Build-Ups  Prevents Blockages  Counteracts Detergent and Chemical Contaminants  Eliminates Unpleasant 12 MONTHLY Smells  Reduces Potential Health Problems TREATMENTS ONLY £29.95!

Create an ODOURLESS AND MUCK MUNCHERS BLOCKAGE FREE Sewage Tank Helping the Environment Muck Munchers are all entirely biological – containing naturally The Environment Agency and EU Commission occurring enzymes and helpful, healthy little micro-organisms have concerns about waste water and pollution of water courses. The action of Muck that set to work in their billions to allow your tank to digest Munchers has a very positive effect on waste naturally too. reducing pollutants and ensuring water released In breaking-down organic solids, and eliminating awful smells, in to the surrounding soil is cleaner and purer. blockages and overfl ows, they are just doing what nature intended. The net result is that solid waste is reduced by as much FREE Start-Up Booster Kit as 97% – that means fewer expensive pump-outs. Kick WORTH £17.50! How do I set Muck Munchers to work... Start Your When you order your first 12 1. Disolve the contents of your Kick-Start Bio-Booster pack CLEANER, 2. Now, just fl ush it down the loo, to get things going Month Treatment Programme, HEALTHIER we’ll also send you a FREE 3. Then each month, simply fl ush down a Muck Septic Munchers soluble sachet pack. Super-Booster Start-Up Kit Tank! to ensure rapid biological TO PLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY CALL activation in your tank. 01626 880 912 or visit muck-munchers.co.uk YES – I want a cleaner sewage tank, free-fl owing drains and to save on pump-outs. Total Name Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms 100% Please Send Me - Price Qty Price 12 Months’ Muck Delivery Address Satisfaction Guarantee MM12BB1 Munchers Programme £29.95 We guarantee you’ll see and smell (12 x MM Solu-Packs) Kick-Start Booster the difference within a couple of weeks. PLUS £17.50 1 FREE 100g Treatment Postcode If not satisfi ed, return the remaining 11 Postage, Packaging & Delivery Insurance £4.95 Email address* months’ packs and we’ll return every TOTAL AMOUNT penny you’ve spent. Telephone I enclose my cheque made payable to Bio-Gard Limited Debit my VISA Mastercard Maestro Code XCA63 Card Number Start End Maestro Card Security Date Date Issue Date Number (last 3 numbers on signature strip) Martin Harvey Name on card Send to Bio-Gard Limited, Director *YOUR MONTHLY FLUSH AND FORGET EMAIL – By including your email address, we’ll send you a reminder Carriage House, Forde Way, each month to treat your tank. Please tick if you would prefer not to receive offers other than from us. Newton Abbott, TQ12 4EY

Bio-Gard.indd 1 16/02/2016 11:53 FEATURE COUNTRYSIDE CAREERS

Which course? ➺ LIAM STOKES has some advice for youngsters interested in a career in the countryside.

aking the decision to step “A NOTE OF CAUTION AT THIS out of mainstream, traditional POINT... DON’T RELY ON YOUR subjects and into the diverse SCHOOL CAREERS ADVISOR, and often confusing world AT LEAST NOT EXCLUSIVELY. Tof land-based education can be very SOME ARE BRILLIANT AND daunting. Unless you’re lucky enough to KNOW THE LAND-BASED A-levels it equates to. Get yourself a suitable be studying at a school with a farm, animal EDUCATION SYSTEM INSIDE Level 3 land-based qualifi cation and you are centre or gardens, you are probably not OUT. SOME ARE LESS SO.” equipped to apply to university. But rather only looking at a change of course but than go further into the rather byzantine a change of location, leaving the well- detail here, the safest bet is to decide on trodden paths of school for the new world etc.) and qualifi cation size. Size at the what subjects you are interested in and of land-based colleges. moment is indicated by the name of contact the colleges you are considering, Post-16, with GCSEs in the bag (or at the qualifi cation – Awards, Certifi cates, to see what courses they offer that would least attempted!), your options broaden Diplomas, Extended Diplomas and be suitable for you. They will look at your tremendously. The entire menu of courses once upon a time as National Diploma, qualifi cations, tell you what you are eligible and programmes at land-based colleges although at the time of writing land-based to study and explain what progression across the country becomes accessible qualifi cations are in a state of fl ux and routes are available to you. to you. Unfortunately, this choice can be these names are liable to change again. A note of caution at this point, and utterly bewildering, not least because In fact this is another reason land-based a controversial one – don’t rely on most college websites are simply not up qualifi cations seem so complicated – they your school careers advisor, at least not to the task of interpreting such quantities are rarely allowed to stay unchanged long exclusively. Some are brilliant and know of information. Everything is divided into enough for people to understand them. the land-based education system inside levels (Entry 3, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 Broadly speaking, Level 2 qualifi cations out. Some are less so. Some might even are GCSE equivalent and Level 3 are encourage you to stay on at school when equivalent to A-levels, with the size of the a land-based college would be your best qualifi cation dictating how many GCSEs or bet. I remember an aspiring gamekeeper who told me he had been advised to stay Liam Stokes (centre with beard) arrived on at school and do A-levels while beating at the Countryside Alliance as Head of at the weekend, rather than seek an Shooting in January 2016, prior to which apprenticeship or a full-time gamekeeping he taught gamekeeping and wildlife course, before applying for jobs in management at Wiltshire College Lackham, running the Lackham Shoot. keepering. I’m not attributing motive, but this was not good advice. ➺

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 25

25-26 MC OK.indd 25 17/02/2016 17:47 FEATURE COUNTRYSIDE CAREERS

So, what land-based subjects might you consider? The fi rst thing to understand is that if you haven’t got a grade C in GCSE Maths and English you will have to work towards redoing these qualifi cations. Don’t blame the college, they’re not happy about it either, it’s government policy. Embrace it as an opportunity to secure some very employable skills. Alongside these GCSEs, if you need them, you’ll undertake your main qualifi cation. The most popular subject at the majority of land-based colleges is Animal Care/Management, usually based around an animal centre of exotic and companion animals. Jobs in this area are fi ercely sought-after and the courses tend to be extremely well subscribed, but they include a thorough grounding “SOME RURAL INDUSTRIES in animal science and physiology that is ARE CRYING OUT FOR NEW easily as transferable as a range of science ENTRANTS, OTHERS ARE A-levels. Just don’t think this is the ideal SUPER-COMPETITIVE TO grounding for a veterinary degree, for BREAK INTO.” which traditional A-levels would be better preparation. Similarly grounded in animal science but focussing on livestock courses in Floristry, Fishery Management, production, with some plant and soil Equine Science and Horse Care, Farriery science and a good deal of business and Farm Mechanisation. management, are Agriculture qualifi cations. It is important to also note that not meet other people embarking on the same These are highly diverse, usually best every college will deliver these courses journey you are. Full time courses are also delivered on a college farm and extremely in the same way. Sometimes it is worth traditionally more suited to preparing you employable. If your enthusiasms lie more travelling or considering staying in halls of for university, if that is what you choose to with the plant science than the animals residence to fi nd the college that delivers do next. you might consider Horticulture, which your subject of choice in the way that suits Whichever college, subject and route also has the added benefi t of being you the best. You are under no obligation you opt for, choosing land-based guarantees woefully undersubscribed and therefore to attend your nearest provider. you an interesting and diverse period of extremely sought-after by employers. Once you’ve chosen your college and study and some really employable skills. Horticulture qualifi cations often your area of study, your fi nal decision will Some rural industries are crying out for incorporate elements of hard landscaping, be whether to plump for a college course new entrants, others are super-competitive plant propagation, garden design and or an apprenticeship. Both will probably to break into, but either way a land-based arboriculture, although this last subject can involve some time in college, although not qualifi cation will give you a great start in actually be studied as a standalone course necessarily. An apprenticeship involves an getting where you want to go. ● by budding tree surgeons. Equally rare as assessor visiting you at work and helping horticulturalists, agricultural engineers you compile a portfolio of your skills, with These land-based options are are very employable but courses are not either a day per week or a block of days increasingly available at an earlier age that common. If this is the area you are every couple of months spent at college than ever before, with certain land- interested in then seek out courses in developing your knowledge. A full time based qualifi cations being available Land Based Technology and be prepared to programme rarely means literally full from the age of 14 as an alternative spend a lot of time playing with engines, time these days, but rather three or four to GCSEs. If these appeal, then taking apart large farm machinery and days in college with additional work to the fi rst port of call is a discussion wearing overalls. Then there is the area complete at home and an expectation of with your school, because these closest to my heart (best for last and all relevant work experience. The academic qualifi cations are usually delivered that). Countryside Management consists of requirements of work based and college in a partnership between schools Gamekeeping and Conservation, often but based courses are becoming increasingly and local colleges and you’ll need not always delivered as distinct courses similar, with end of year exams now a real your school’s support. Also be aware in their own right. Conservation courses likelihood for both routes in the future, so that this is a constantly moving tend to lead to study at university with a really this is a question of whether you can picture politically, with vocational view to working in volunteer management, fi nd an employer willing to offer you an qualifi cations not at all popular with rural tourism, practical site management or apprenticeship and which route appeals the current government and liable research and advisory, while Gamekeeping to you. An apprenticeship might offer you to be dropped from your school’s can lead to careers in land management more real-world experience, but a full time curriculum, so speak to them for the as well as the obvious keepering and course offers you easier access to college most up-to-date information. associated businesses. There are also support mechanisms and opportunities to

26 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

25-26 MC OK.indd 26 22/02/2016 12:49 Study to be a gamekeeper at Hartpury

With our 360-hectare specialist estate as your classroom, there’s no place like Hartpury to open the door to your dream career in the gamekeeping industry.

Hartpury is one of very few colleges nationally that runs a commercial shoot, giving you the chance to be immersed in the preparations for a major shoot – helping run the event and handle clients. There’s more to

Completing duties with our gamekeeper, you’ll also be fully our classrooms. involved in rearing the pheasants and partridges and you’ll work with the College’s own 70-strong red deer herd. Hartpury also Come and discover our superb facilities, visit our campus boasts its own fully stocked fishing lake and extensive woodland, and fi nd out everything you need to know about our unique range of construction, sports, animal, equine and providing our students with a wide range of opportunities to land-based courses. Full, part-time, university-level courses put their theoretical knowledge to the test in real-life practical and apprenticeships all available – be more at Moulton. situations right on their doorstep. Wednesday 22nd June, 5.30pm-8pm To find out more about our two-year Countryside Management Speak to lecturers, tour the campus and see our accommodation. (Game) BTEC Level Three Diploma or to book on to an open day, go to www.hartpury.ac.uk/CAgamekeeping Pre-register at www.moulton.ac.uk or call us today on 01604 491131

Group Shoots with Friends

Relax in the Victorian Clubhouse

Have a blast at the UK’s largest clay shooting schools.

Explore everything from Pay & Play to individual or group lessons & practice. No prior experience necessary. Bisley Camp is world-famous as a shooting destination. Set in 3,000 Fantastic Clay Shooting acres of stunning Surrey heath & woodland, Bisley Shooting Ground is described by many as Europe's top, and most beautiful, clay shooting school offering the highest clay pheasants in the country soaring over 200 feet. Bisley at Braidwood in the Scottish Borders benefits from Scotland’s most versatile automated Pay & Play facility for the experienced shot to take themselves round, as well as some of the finest instructors. Bisley at Braidwood is also home to the country’s first 100m full-bore Young Shots Days rifle pipe range, a fantastic skeet range, country retail store, café and gunroom. www.bisleyshooting.co.uk

p27_CA_Spring16.indd 27 22/02/2016 14:18 FEATURE SUSTAINABLE ISLAND Carna custodians ➺ HARRY TOWERS’ family has been on Carna since the 1880s and they are forging its sustainable future with an eye fi rmly on conservation.

here are many Scottish islands, some big, some small, some well-known, some less well-known, but Tone you’ve probably never heard of is the Isle of Carna. This 600-acre uninhabited and wildlife-rich rock rises out of the “…IT HAS BEEN A FIERCE scenic waters of Loch Sunart on Scotland’s STRUGGLE TO MAKE A SMALL West Coast and sits quietly between the ISLAND SURVIVE AGAINST A secluded peninsulas of Ardnamurchan BACKDROP OF DECLINING and Morvern. Carna has been owned ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY by my family since the 1880s when it FOR SMALL AND REMOTE formed part of a classic Victorian highland FARMS AND COMMUNITIES sporting estate. A lot has changed since AND ONLY FLEDGLING that time: the tragedy of the First World TOURISM AND CONSERVATION War; embezzling lawyers and old-fashioned OPPORTUNITIES.” views on women’s ability to manage property and money. But the island still survives in the family’s care and now the signifi cant population living there, but by transition has begun for a new generation 2003 there was no population, no livestock to make their mark and attempt to make and thus no means to actively manage the Murphy Peter Photo: the place thrive once more. For a small land. Thankfully, my uncle’s determination grasslands and wetland, all surrounded island with no roads, internet, permanent kept the island going until now when by the teeming waters of Loch Sunart population, telephones, mobile reception things are starting to come back round which has recently been designated a or full-time electricity, and accessible only for small enterprises and the growth of Marine Protected Area (MPA). Most of the by private boat, this certainly proves alternative tourism experiences and power island is also designated a Site of Special a challenge, but one we are excited to of the internet presents ever-changing Scientifi c Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area take on! opportunities for a unique place like of Conservation (SAC) and acts as a haven For the previous generation, led by my Carna. Being a small but diverse island, our for many species including otters, sea and uncle, Tim Milward, it has been a fi erce path to sustainability has to be paved by golden eagles, kestrels, cuckoos, curlews, struggle to make a small island survive doing a variety of activities on a small scale woodpeckers, pine martens and harbour against a backdrop of declining economic and making them fi t together with mutual seals to name just a few. sustainability for small and remote farms benefi ts for each. For us, this will involve We also have the remains of an ancient and communities, and only fl edgling a carefully coordinated combination of meadow (97% of which have been lost tourism and conservation opportunities. sustainable farming, forestry, tourism, in the UK since the 1930s) covering Carna was once inhabited by around 18 education and, vitally, conservation. about seven ha and containing many houses and farmed sustainably by the The loss of farming over the past 20-30 songbirds, orchids and other wildfl owers, years has, however, given our fantastic butterfl ies, moths and other insect life. The wildlife a great opportunity to thrive with search will be on this June/July to fi nd little or no disturbance and competition, the rare and elusive Chequered Skipper Harry Towersworks as a and absolutely no chemicals or fertilisers. butterfl y on the island, as it is found on the private chef based in Yorkshire and as Director of Carna Having previously suffered from gradual neighbouring mainland already. Otters are Conservation Initiative (CIC). deforestation and overgrazing, we now also one of our favourite residents which see the regeneration of rare Atlantic we see hunting and playing along our Oakwood habitat alongside a mosaic of coastline almost daily from the two holiday heather moorland with hill and meadow cottages on the island. Carna is perfect for

28 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

28-29 CARNA CONSERVATION MC OK.indd 28 22/02/2016 12:51 FEATURE SUSTAINABLE ISLAND Photo: Cain Scrimgeour Photo:

them. They are surrounded by fast-fl owing on new growth of the more palatable tidal currents providing plenty of food, and oak, rowan, holly and hazel trees. Thus, there are many freshwater burns for them Carna Conservation Initiative was to travel around the island. They are a joy formed in 2014 with neighbouring to watch at any time. Ardnamurchan Marine Centre to This ‘opportunity’ for our wildlife has, coordinate the protection and however, started to backfi re with no enhancement of the large variety of means to control invasive species species and habitats on the island. We such as rhododendron and bracken have a series of conservation projects and our ancient wildfl ower meadows, including restoring the wildfl ower are becoming dominated by rush and meadow with native rare breed cattle, other coarse grasses with little grazing, establishing colonies of native ‘dark’ shading out light for the wildfl owers. The honey bees, encouraging and creating impact of our relatively small population new native woodland, the removal of of deer has also taken an increasing toll invasive non-native species and taking brought into the digital age only boosts part in the monitoring and protection of its credibility. “CARNA CONSERVATION the surrounding waters of Loch Sunart, With the fi rst honey bee hives planned INITIATIVE WAS FORMED IN along with other local stakeholders. for 2016 and hopefully the introduction of 2014 WITH NEIGHBOURING The success of these projects will around 10 Shetland cattle this year, there ARDNAMURCHAN MARINE go hand in hand with a new effort to are plenty of exciting times that lie ahead. CENTRE TO COORDINATE market the island as a destination for Hopefully, and not before too long, we will THE PROTECTION AND ‘escape’ and wildlife tourism. We receive be able to serve 100% grass and ENHANCEMENT OF THE LARGE some donations to the projects directly seaweed-fed beef and totally organic VARIETY OF SPECIES AND but the focus is very much ‘tourism-led heather honey to our guests alongside HABITATS ON THE ISLAND.” conservation’. This way the profi ts of our the existing delicious local venison, guests help fund our conservation work, langoustine, mussels and lobsters. I’ll drink improve the economic sustainability of to that! Carna and provide additional benefi ts to With love, attention and plenty of hard the local community, as well as educational graft this Scottish island is becoming and research opportunities for schools, another of the conservation successes colleges and universities. that Scotland has in abundance. ● This is certainly not the simplest or easiest idea in terms of turning a profi t, but the project does make the most of a Carna Conservation Initiative CIC, landscape that otherwise would lay baron Loch Sunart, PH36 4JW with no use to man or wildlife. Thankfully, ● www.carnaconservation.org business in the wildlife tourism market ● [email protected] is booming, the ‘digital detox’ holiday ● Tel: 01972 500 208 is certainly in fashion and the fact that ● Twitter @isleofcarna Carna has never had the capability to be

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 29

28-29 CARNA CONSERVATION MC OK.indd 29 22/02/2016 12:52 FEATURE LIVESTOCK WORRYING Livestock worrying – the facts, the law and common sense SERGEANT MATTHEW HOWELLS of Dyfed Powys Police outlines the law and gives advice to dog owners to reduce livestock worrying.

eing the largest rural area to “THE MAJORITY OF INCIDENTS unnoticed. When walking your dogs in the police in England and Wales, CAN BE AVOIDED AS LONG countryside, do not allow them to roam Dyfed Powys Police deals AS DOG OWNERS TAKE free, keep them on a lead. Stick to public with similar incidents as any RESPONSIBLE STEPS TO ENSURE rights of way and footpaths when crossing Bother rural police force. One topic that has THAT THEIR DOGS ARE SAFE private land, however, if you are chased regularly made farming media headlines AND SECURE WHETHER AT by cattle, let your dog go as the cattle will over recent years has been the increase in HOME OR ON A WALK.” most likely chase the dog. attacks on livestock, in particular sheep, If you know your dog has been involved by dogs. in an incident, usually noticeable from For a farmer, who has invested time, corner of a fi eld with three others dead blood on their coats, take steps to identify money and a big dose of passion into in a nearby stream. The ewes had no where and contact the farmer to arrange rearing quality livestock, to wake up to doubt been crowded into the corner and compensation. Also, take responsible steps fi nd just one animal mauled to death is drowned in an attempt to escape from the to ensure that your dog is not able to do disheartening. To fi nd several injured, unknown marauding dog/s. it again. dead, ripped apart from what can only So what can be done to try and reduce, For the farmers and witnesses of any be described as a frenzied attack, not if not stop these incidents from happening incidents of livestock worrying, please only hits the business fi nancially but altogether? As well as dealing with the report it to the police on 101. ● can emotionally impact upon them, individual incidents in trying to identify their family and employees. The value of the dogs responsible and where necessary, the stock, the unborn or aborted lambs with the support of the farmer, take out Under the Dogs (Protection of and the cost of veterinary bills can run prosecutions against the owners, we have Livestock) Act 1953 the owner and into thousands of pounds. The majority also taken steps to make more people anyone else who is in control of of incidents can be avoided as long as aware of the issue, the legislation and the the dog at the time will be guilty dog owners take responsible steps to consequences of allowing their dogs to of a criminal offence if it worries ensure that their dogs are safe and secure, roam unsupervised. We have produced livestock on agricultural land. whether they be at home or out being a leafl et (available to download from “Livestock” includes cattle, sheep, taken for a walk. the Countryside Alliance website) that goats, swine, horses and poultry. We can receive up to 20 or more calls explains the legislation with advice to “Agricultural land” includes a month from livestock owners who have farmers and dog owners. This leafl et is land used as arable, meadow or come across injured and dead animals being handed to local residents where grazing land or for the purpose in their fi elds with injuries that could incidents are reported to us to make of pig or poultry farming, market only have been caused by a dog or dogs everyone aware of what’s happened and gardens, allotments, nursery working together. A recent incident at the same time educate dog owners grounds and orchards. saw the farmer fi nding a dead ewe in a to their responsibilities and highlight ‘Worrying’ is where a dog is: the consequences should their dogs be ● Attacking livestock, involved in such an incident. ● Chasing livestock in such a way Matthew Howells is For some playful dogs, just chasing that it could reasonably be expected a Sergeant with Dyfed Powys sheep around a fi eld may be fun and to cause injury or suffering or, in the Police, based in Carmarthen. there may not be any inclination for case of females, abortion or the loss With 17 years’ service one of or diminution of their produce (milk his roles is working on Chief that dog to attack the sheep, however Constable Simon Prince’s the consequences can be just as dire yields etc). National Portfolio on Rural and with sheep suffocating each other while ● Being at large (that is to say not Wildlife Crime. Matthew was cramming into a corner of a fi eld or on a lead or otherwise under close born and raised on the family control) in a fi eld or enclosure in dairy farm and has strong links drowning in similar circumstances when within the farming communities that corner of the fi eld is in fact a water which there are sheep. in all fo ur counties of Dyfed fi lled ditch or stream. Sheep dogs, police dogs, guide Powys, having been seconded If you live near agricultural land dogs, working gundogs or a pack to the Countryside Council for and in particular farm animals, ensure of hounds are exempted if they are Wales and Natural Resources legally on the land. Wales for over three years. your kennel and house security is at a level where your dog cannot escape

30 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

30 Sheepworrying MC se OK.indd 30 22/02/2016 12:59 SPECIAL READERS OFFER FROM

PURE COTTON DRILL JEANS

ONLY £35 or 2 for £60 + £5 P&P

ƌŝĐŬ

DƵƐƚĂƌĚ

Pine

^ƚŽŶĞ

EĂǀLJ

Waist: 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 Leg: 28 30 32 34 Code: MT18

The durable cotton fabric is rugged, - 100% Cotton drill practical and wonderfully soft. - 5 Tough, deep, riveted pockets Brick, Mustard or Pine to stand out - Free returns service and from the crowd, Stone or Navy for money back guarantee understated style. Flat front pure cotton with straight leg, belt loops and tough YKK metal fly zip.

TO ORDER VISIT www.peterchristian.co.uk/caj OR CALL AND QUOTE 19J11 01273 493 393 Mon-Sun 8am-10pm

ϮϱDĂĐŬůĞLJƐƚĂƚĞ͕,ĞŶĮĞůĚZŽĂĚ͕^ŵĂůůŽůĞ͕tĞƐƚ^ƵƐƐĞdž͕EϱϵyZ ŝǀŝƐŝŽŶŽĨ,ŝůůƐŽĨƌĂŵůĞLJ>ƚĚŽZĞŐEŽϬϰϳϲϳϴϬϮ

p31_CA_Spring16.indd 31 22/02/2016 14:21 FEATURE HUNTING The power of debate ➺ Animal welfare consultant JIM BARRINGTON reports from the education frontline as he tours schools and colleges to The Brocklesby make the case for hunting. hounds by Bryan Pye

n today’s world, where access to inevitably fi lters through to Members of “THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE the media and general information Parliament and may infl uence how they TOOK THE VIEW THAT THE has never been greater, the internet then vote. CASE FOR HUNTING NEEDED TO opens the door to an unimaginable It would be easy to accept what the BE PUT IN SCHOOLS, COLLEGES degreeI of knowledge to anyone linked to anti-hunt groups constantly tell us, that AND UNIVERSITIES, INDEED the web via their computer, tablet or phone. the public is solidly opposed to hunting ANY FORUM THAT ALLOWED PEOPLE TO MAKE THEIR OWN It has allowed issues to be raised that, and repeal of the Hunting Act. When the http:// Pye Bryan Photo: brypyephotography.zenfolio.com/ in other times, would simply not even be opportunity arises to go into greater detail MINDS UP ABOUT HUNTING known, let alone discussed. Social media, through a presentation or debate, however, WITH DOGS.” such as Twitter, now gives a voice to those the reaction of the audience does not who, in previous times, would simply have follow the expected line. been ignored. It has, however, also created The Countryside Alliance took the view venue was a technical college. a situation in which a serious debate on any that the case for hunting needed to be put These presentations involve a number complex or controversial matter is almost in schools, colleges and universities, indeed of aspects: the lack of science supporting impossible and that fact is exploited to the any forum that allowed people to make a hunting ban; the need for a proper hilt by certain pressure groups who know their own minds up about hunting with understanding of wildlife management; full well that the public tends to have a dogs. The Veterinary Association for Wildlife the impractical ‘alternatives’ sometimes limited attention span, especially on issues Management agrees and the information advocated; the party political opportunism that do not affect their day-to-day lives. So supplied by both organisations combines and the unprincipled and illogical nature of while some arguments are indeed complex, into an unanswerable case in favour of the the legislation itself. But the central point their campaigning slogans can be simple. responsible use of hunting dogs. is the animal-to-animal interaction that is But here is an interesting irony; the Over the past few years, many talks, hunting with hounds. more we are told, the less we appear to presentations and debates have taken Humans use the incredible qualities of understand and, once again, that lack of place and the results have been extremely the dog for a whole host of reasons, ranging understanding is exploited. positive. Some of the talks have been at the from search and rescue to dogs for the Certain groups with charitable status are invitation of Young Farmers Clubs (YFCs) disabled; from police and military use to quite prepared to fl out Charity Commission and a cynic might say well of course their dogs that can detect cancer. Of course, dogs guidelines that require a scientifi c basis to support is to be expected, but in fact it is are also companions to millions of people. the advertisements and statements they not the case that all farmers, and certainly When the dog’s abilities are described, produce. Often, such material has little or not all young farmers, are automatically its role in wildlife management explained no basis in fact. pro-hunt. Yet in every event, and there and how this combines into a unique, No surprise then that people sometimes have been a considerable number, the natural and humane process, the most have a slightly skewed view of wildlife. It overwhelming view was to support repeal common response is, “I never thought of it would be wrong, however, to think it hardly of the Hunting Act. that way before.” matters. Such manipulation of the facts Debates have taken place at university And that is precisely what anti-hunt and the pressure social media can exert veterinary schools and not one has been groups fear. ● lost. That is quite a statement, given that these young people have dedicated their If you know of a school, group or Jim Barrington is a former lives to the welfare of animals, and may college that would welcome a talk Director of the League Against have contributed to another veterinary from Jim, please get in touch with Cruel Sports and works for the school debate being cancelled because no Countryside Alliance as an animal [email protected]. welfare consultant. Jim’s calm speaker from any anti hunting group was Jim brings a powerpoint presentation and rational approach to wildlife willing to take part. Recently, when the as well as supporting documents and management never fails to diffuse students at a college voted unanimously references the Veterinary Association anti-hunt fury in the media and in favour of hunting with hounds, antis on at debates. Follow Jim on Twitter for Wildlife Management as well as @jimbarrington social media had to imply they must have the Countryside Alliance. been a bunch of ‘agrics’, when in fact the

32 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

32 - Hunting MC OK.indd 32 22/02/2016 13:06 Permanent. Transportable. Norwegian Log squares the Planning circle.

COMP LY W I NPPF T 15% of f H your first order online P A use code CA15 RA 55 during checkout Norwegian Log transportable homes make it easy to convert a temporary permission into a permanent home – perfect for your agricultural tie: • Help you attract and retain employees 176 Years of Understated British Style • Welcoming homes for family members • Built to last, with traditional Norwegian craftsmanship 19 Piccadilly, • Treated as mobile homes for Planning purposes, London W1J 0LA and compliant with CLDs and similar permission Westminster Arcade, Parliament Street, Harrogate HG1 2RN www.cordings.co.uk Tel. 0118 966 9236 www.norwegianlog.co.uk

p33_CA_Spring16.indd 33 22/02/2016 14:23 p34_CA_Spring16.indd 34 22/02/2016 14:35 FEATURE BOXALL & EDMISTON

Engraving a Boxall & Edmiston ➺ DREW BOXALL of Shropshire-based gunmakers Boxall & Edmiston explains why artistry and technology work together in engraving to ensure your gun is a one-of-a-kind piece.

t Boxall & Edmiston, we have pioneered the use of laser engraving. It has often been said that “laser Aengraving is nothing like hand engraving”, which is partly true, but not in the way you might think. We would never question the incredible ability of a hand engraver whose artistry and originality sees them able to adorn a shotgun or rifl e with art and then (the bit that I fi nd particularly staggering) mirror it across a second side and often again in its “THIS LEVEL OF entirety onto another separate gun. CUSTOMISATION IS FAIRLY A hand engraver’s work is an original UNIQUE ON GUNS AND WITH piece of art, entirely bespoke, with A BOXALL & EDMISTON YOU Edmiston” embossed, the other with a customers often requesting strange and CAN REST ASSURED THAT THE silver background and “Boxall & Edmiston” beautiful scenes from named engravers PATTERN IS NEVER GOING TO engraved. These are purely aesthetic who, in the world of guns, are incredibly BE MASS-PRODUCED.” changes although the silver bolster does famous. Now imagine if they could copy compliment lighter walnut stocks. it perfectly, as you would with a limited Clients also have the option to have edition art print, onto another gun. This laser has been completed, that artwork and game scenes engraved onto the bottom of would be a revolution and would open up the ability to adorn it becomes achievable their round action, or something entirely the ownership of this beautiful engraving by someone other than the artist. bespoke such as family crests or their to a whole new audience who appreciate The winner of the 2015 Countryside dogs. Many of the bespoke engraving the beauty of the piece, the deep perfectly Alliance gun draw has recently had his requests have been for clients’ dogs and engraved lines, but do not want the price gun engraved. The prize winner opted for family crests. tag that so often comes with an original. a full scroll engraving on his round action All customised engraving is either At Boxall & Edmiston, artists create the 12 bore over-and-under. The scrollwork is entwined or framed in a vignette within scrollwork that we engrave onto each gun. a deeply cut, multi-layered design, which one of our artist’s engravings. This level At present, we have two main engravers covers the entirety of the action, bar a of customisation is fairly unique on guns who have developed the scrollwork, small border around the edge. and with a Boxall & Edmiston yyou can rest game scenes and bespoke scenes. The art The bespoke engraving options assured thatthat the patternpattern is never going is created by hand and inputted into our available on the round action offer two to be mass-producedass-produced and will alwaalwaysys bbee design systems, we then use several pieces different bolster engravings, one with limited ttoo tthehe hhandfulandful of gugunsns made at of software to create what are essentially a darker background and “Boxall & Boxall & Edmiston each yyear.ear. ● programmes that the laser uses to engrave our products. These programmes provide another benefi t to the laser. Once the incredibly time-consuming and diffi cult task of creating the art and the programmes for the

Drew Boxall is the son of company co-founder Peter Boxall. An expert in the gunmaking process he has helped CA 2015 gun draw winner Dr Wilson design, build and engrave his bespoke gun.

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 35

35 B&E MC OK.indd 35 18/02/2016 10:11 FEATURE CHALKSTREAMS Conserving and cherishing our chalkstreams ➺ JOHN SLADER writes about his love of chalkstreams and why it is critical that we preserve them.

ften, unless you are an 20 years or so, we have seen a dramatic “MANY FLY FISHING angler, a chalkstream is change in weather patterns and with it TECHNIQUES HAVE BEEN seen as just another river extremes spanning drought to fl ooding. DEVELOPED ON THESE RIVERS and very little regard is Outwardly, chalkstreams seem to be OVER THE PAST CENTURY AND Opaid to its signifi cance. In fact we are in fi ne fettle. Swans, ducks, moorhens A HALF.” talking here about a national treasure, as etc grace the surface and for the more approximately 85% of the World’s resource observant you may even be lucky enough of chalkstreams is to be found in England. to see the fl ash of blue of a kingfi sher. corresponding sample.” So not only are they of national interest With the return of otters, one can be Nick goes on to say:“A second concern but also of international importance as forgiven into believing all is well with our is declining invertebrate abundance in well. The Test, Itchen and Hampshire Avon local rivers. general, at the species and family level. are classic examples and perhaps the most To truly assess the health of a river the The ‘best’ Itchen site had a total well-known of all chalksteams. In historic focus must be on life below the surface invertebrate count of 400 last spring angling literature they are often mentioned rather than what is above it. compared with a count of over 4000 on in hallowed terms, and many fl y fi shing This paints a very different picture – the Derbyshire Wye.” techniques have been developed on these many wild fi sh populations are struggling It is a complex problem: changing rivers over the past century and a half. for survival, as are several invertebrate weather patterns; human pressures With such a treasured resource species, which are food for birds and placing ever growing demands for fresh on our doorstep you could be forgiven mammals as well as fi sh. Furthermore, water; run-off from roads and farmland for believing that chalkstreams, together weed growth, essential to the ecology of and sewage treatment works etc are with all rivers, would be cherished the river, is lacking on many stretches. all having a negative impact on the and nurtured. For years, conservationists have received aquatic environment. It is incumbent Although we keep hearing the rhetoric assurances by Government’s glossy plans on all conservationists to challenge the that rivers have never been cleaner, the and strategies, but so little has changed threats rivers are experiencing e.g. over stark reality is, by the Government’s own that many would say that the concerns abstraction, high levels of nutrients, diffuse admission, 83% of rivers in England fail written of 20 or so years ago remain valid pollution etc to rise to the challenge and the test of good ecological status under today – all that has changed is the date! seek practical solutions. European environmental legislation. Last year, Salmon & Trout Conservation In the words of Paul Knight, Chief A sad indictment of the way in which UK (S&TC UK) embarked upon its Executive of S&TC UK, “Water is our we care for our natural resource and National Riverfl y Census project. This lifeblood. We can do without a lot of aquatic environment. included the River Itchen, a Special Area things in life, but one commodity we As a nation, we take water for of Conservation (SAC), which carries the cannot do without is water. We need to granted, abuse it, pollute it and then highest level of environmental protection waste less, conserve more and continue go to great expense treating it for under the European Habitats Directive. to press UK Government to sign up to a human consumption. Consequently you would expect it to robust strategy that protects aquatic life as With a commodity that is so vital to our be in good order, and yet S&TC UK’s well as providing water for us humans. If very existence it is perhaps surprising invertebrate sampling, highlights a far we don’t achieve that balance, what legacy that successive Governments have failed different picture. are we to leave future generations?” ● to come up with a robust water strategy. Nick Measham heads up the project Whether you believe in climate change or on behalf of S&TC UK, a registered not, one thing is indisputable; over the past environmental charity, and as he explains, “Initial fi ndings from the Spring 2015 sampling give rise to a number of concerns which include a pronounced John Slader is a lifelong all-round angler and a passionate decline in Gammarus populations across supporter of the work of Salmon most of the rivers surveyed versus their & Trout Conservation UK. In historic averages. Taking the Itchen as retirement he is an active qualifi ed an example, none of the sites sampled game and coarse angling coach and runs courses and guiding on had more than 200 Gammarus in a the chalkstreams for Orvis. three-minute kick sample; in contrast, the nearby Upper Meon had 5,000 in its

36 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

36 CHALKSTREAMS OK.indd 36 22/02/2016 13:07 Experts in the finest Chesterfield Sofas, lovingly hand crafted in our workshop. Visit www.TimelessChesterfields.com or Call 01204 368413

p37_CA_Spring16.indd 37 22/02/2016 14:37 FEATURE ARTIST Anne Bullen and the art of hunting

➺ LIZZIE GLENDINNING BULLEN looks at the artistic legacy of her husband’s great-grandmother, the popular equestrian artist Anne Bullen.

rolifi c equestrian artist and “ANNE’S EVOCATIVE AND children’s pony book illustrator, THRILLING HUNT SCENES NOT Anne Bullen (1912-1963) ONLY EXQUISITELY CAPTURE is often celebrated for her THE FORM AND MOVEMENT OF Pthrilling images of hunting which she THE HORSES AND THE ELEGANT sketched and painted so evocatively POISE AND RED FLASH OF THE throughout her short but fascinating life. RIDER, BUT ALSO ILLUSTRATE Setting up Catherston Stud in 1949 with THE DYNAMISM OF THE HOUNDS her husband, Lt. Col Jack Bullen, on their IN CHASE.” estate near Charmouth in Dorset, Anne possessed an understanding of horses that was evident in the many top-class ponies home, Catherston Manor, the house of produced there. Anne had the ability to which provided an ideal venue for the outside Badminton Park. tame and condition wild ponies such as annual Hunt Ball. The Catherston Pony Dartmoor, Welsh and Exmoor to sell on. As children, the younger Bullens (Anne Stud continued to fl ourish Crossed with small thoroughbred stallions had six children – Anthony, Mike, Charlie, and Anne and her family settled in to Pony they produced excellent riding ponies. Jennie, Jane and Sarah) were chaperoned Club activities with the Beaufort, also Anne had studied at the Academie Julien to these local hunts by their mother. If showing and hunting. in Paris and at the Chelsea Art School. Her Anne was not riding, she would almost Anne continued with her art while Jack appreciation of the form and power of certainly be recording images of the meet ran Bullen Cards, a business established to horses was so eloquently transcribed in her in her sketch pad which she carried with sell prints, tablemats and greetings cards of many paintings and sketches. She also her tirelessly. Anne’s drawings. mastered the art of depicting the Anne’s evocative and thrilling hunt Anne died in 1963 when she was just interaction between humans and these scenes not only exquisitely capture the 52, but her exacting equestrian standards magnifi cent creatures in images of form and movement of the horses and the paid off, as her children competed for working ponies, war horses and, of course, elegant poise and red fl ash of the rider, but Britain in seven Olympic teams. As in illustrating the adventures of young also illustrate the dynamism of the hounds Badminton and Burghley winner Jane people and their ponies in the much loved in chase, jumping hedgerows; the speed Holderness-Roddam says: “Mike rode in children’s books by authors such as Joanna and power of the galloping horses; the two Olympics, Rome in 1960 where he Cannan, the Pullein-Thompson sisters and anticipation of the track. was 4th just missing the bronze medal and Violet Needham. Anne’s many hunting images, including Tokyo 1964 where he was injured in a fall No more fervently can we see an a series for the Cattistock hunt, which dislocating his shoulder, but carried on interaction between the human, horses, lies in the Bullen Cards archive, depict until the 27th fence on the cross country hounds, landscape, wilderness, rural society the dramatic, sweeping scenery of Dorset before having to retire following a second and traditions than within the artist’s and North Devon and the rural life that one. He received a telegram from the striking hunting archive of paintings and continued as the hunt swept past. In many Queen for his bravery! I rode in Mexico drawings, very much the product ‘of a time’. images we see the farmer on his tractor as 1968 and won a Team Gold Medal and Anne rode in a number of Hunt team the hunt stops to check; Anne’s passion Jennie rode in four Olympics from 1972 to showing classes and by all accounts she for all things equestrian as she shows the 1988.” Anne’s equestrian legacy is sure and hunted quite a bit with the Cattistock, plough horses taking a break as their master her work will continue to delight young Seavington and Cotley hunts all near their points to the direction of the fox; the happy and old for generations to come. ● young terrier yapping at the hounds. Anne’s ability to evoke and Hunting images are available Lizzie Glendinning contextualise a moment in time, and in Bullen is an exhibition maker through Bullen Cards, which is and art dealer. She and her the case of hunting, a time in rural history, now run by Anne’s great-grandson, husband, artist Jack Bullen, run is never more prominent than in the Jack Bullen. For more, visit Brocket Gallery on Kennington drama of her hunt scenes. www.bullencards.co.uk or email Road in South London, as well The family moved, horses in tow, to as Bullen Cards. [email protected] Didmarton, Gloucestershire in 1959, just

38 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

38 Anne Bullen MC OK.indd 38 22/02/2016 13:40 p39_CA_Spring16.indd 39 23/02/2016 11:29 KEEP PREDATORS OUT ‡ Fox Busting Netting Kits ‡ Poultry Netting Kits ‡ Protection from Badgers & Rabbits ‡ Garden and Pond Protection ‡ Bowling Green and SpSportsorts FiFieldeld PProtectionrotection

KEEP ANIMALS IN ‡ Horse Kits - Permanent & Temporary ‡ Poultry Netting ‡ Pig Systems ‡ Dog & Cat Containment Systems ‡ Cattle Fencing ‡ Sheep Three Reel Systems

CALL 01620 860 058 [email protected] www.electricfencing.co.uk

The Electric Fencing Specialists

STANLEY AND SCOTTIE JUMPING FOR JOY!

tanley Pennington was worried about Scottie, his 8 year old Westie. Scottie had jumped down from the quay to his boat and broken his Sfoot. Despite months of treatment Scottie had diffi culty walking and could not get up after sitting down.

Stanley bought a Biofl ow magnetic dog collar and a Biofl ow Elite wristband for himself. He had damaged his own foot severely by treading on a cyanide- coated spike which had pierced his foot causing long-term damage and eventual arthritis.

Stanley was thrilled by the improvements they both felt. Scottie was back to enjoying his walks and much happier in himself. Stanley’s foot felt much better. He says, “My children could not believe the difference in Scottie. As for me, I had been in pain for 3 weeks but my foot feels fi ne. I’ve already recommended Biofl ow collars and wristbands to many friends and I will continue to do so.”

Contact us today for a free brochure full of British land machinery – Trailers, trolleys, carts, leaf sweepers and much more For further information contact: Call 01473 328272 Jenny Ryan 0114 2307844; 07817671259 16 Den Bank Crescent, Sheffi eld, S Yorks S10 5PD [email protected] [email protected] www.schsupplies.co.uk www.magneticpower4u.net

p40_CA_Spring16.indd 40 22/02/2016 14:41 GET INVOLVED Recipe of the quarter

Recipe by Game-to-Eat Development Chef LEE MAYCOCK. This recipe is taken from the 2015-16 Game-to-Eat recipe leafl et, developed by Lee to support our efforts to get game onto the national menu. Follow Lee on Twitter @LeeMaycock1.

{ A Spring game treat} Wood Pigeon, PREPARATION METHOD ● Place the cherries in a thick bottom pan Wild Cherries & with the wine and sugar Gingerbread ● Cook slowly until a soft and sticky compôte ● Make the gingerbread crumbs

Wood pigeon is plentiful, cheap and nutritious. ● Season the wood pigeon and sear in a hot This simple recipe will be a Spring treat pan for one minute each side FOR MORE GAME YOU WILL NEED… ● Place into a hot oven 200OC for two minutes RECIPES PLEASE VISIT WWW.GAMETOEAT.CO.UK Serves 4 ● Remove from the oven and allow to rest FOLLOW THE TEAM ON for a further two minutes ● 8 wood pigeon breasts FACEBOOK AND ON ● 200g wild cherries TWITTER @GAMETOEAT ● Place the wild cherry compôte on the plate ● 20g sugar ● 20ml red wine ● Cut the wood pigeon and place next to ● 100g gingerbread the compote ● Cornish sea salt ● Milled black pepper ● Finish with the gingerbread crumb and serve

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 41

41 Recipe se OK.indd 41 11/02/2016 14:47 Endorsed by The Mole Hole Push. Click. Master Mole Specialist traditional Catchers in moleskin clothing It’s that quick.k. the UK for men and women. British made, EasySet Mole Trap hand-tailored Revolutionary EasySet Mole Trap. moleskin trousers, £17.50 each breeks and Mole Catchers Kit waistcoats. Everything you need for only £95.00 Accessories also available separately. www.beagleproducts.comm www.themolehole.co.ukehoh lecouk or call us on 01223 927216 Tel: 01989 730376

Clive Rees Llb., MH. If you are summonsed for poaching, Ground Floor, Hunting Act offences, Animal Welfare Act Metropole Chambers offences, Protection of Badgers offences Salubrious Passage Offences relating to “wild” cage birds and Swansea, SA1 3RT “wild” animals or if you want to appeal Phone 01792 474201 refusal of a shotgun or Firearm, or a or 07969 378750 wrong decision by a Magistrates’ Court Email: anywhere in England & Wales: [email protected] I am your man. Lexcel Quality Mark Accredited. Authorised & Regulated by the (Legal Aid may be available subject to means) Solicitors Regulation Authority.

GaragesGarages OOutbuldingsutbuldings BaBarnsrns CoComplexesmpplexes OOfficesffices StStudiosudios PPoolool EnEnclosuresclosuress BoBoatata HHousesouses RResidentialesidential CoCommercialmmercial RADNOR OAK BUILDINGS Tel: 01544 260727 www.radnoroak.co.uk

p42_CA_Spring16.indd 42 22/02/2016 14:46 FEATURE COUNTRYSIDE ACCESS

The Hunt Staff Benefi t Society: supporting a hunting life ➺ ALASTAIR JACKSON has spent a lifetime in

hunting and is now the fundraising director of the Hunt Staff The National Horn Blowing Benefi t Society. Here, he explains the Society’s support for Competition at the those who devote their life to hunting. Horn and Hound Ball

ow many people know “AT THE END OF THE DAY Member of the HSBS. It only costs a what the Hunt Staff EVERYONE WHO GOES minimum subscription of £30 per year Benefi t Society (HSBS) HUNTING, EITHER ON A HORSE, (or £500 for Life Membership). Banker’s actually is? It is a pension BY CAR, OR ON FOOT SHOULD orders for Honorary Membership plus schemeH available to all those working BECOME AN HONORARY details of the Horn and Hound Ball and as employees of hunts, whether as MEMBER OF THE HSBS.” other fundraising events can be obtained huntsmen, whippers-in, kennelmen, from Lizzie Dyer at the HSBS Offi ce on countrymen or hunt grooms. [email protected]. Pension arrangements are usually the and other fundraising initiatives. This Details about the pension scheme last thing on the minds of young hunt gives the HSBS a great advantage over for hunt staff can be obtained from the staff setting out on a career in hunting. comparable pension policies available Secretary to the HSBS, Fiona Russell- However, there has been plenty of recent from leading assurance companies Brown, who administers the Society and publicity and national debate concerning and others in this fi eld, and boosts the can also answer any other queries that the provision of reasonable fi nance for funds available for retirement benefi ts. you might have – [email protected]. everyone on retirement, and hunting has While the Society’s pension scheme Both Fiona and Lizzie can be the added hazard of possible injury, which cannot be used as a qualifying scheme contacted at the HSBS Offi ce, can sometimes mean the premature end for the Government’s new compulsory c/o The Hunting Offi ce, Overley to a career. The Hunting Act has made workplace pension scheme (auto- Barn, Daglingworth, Cirencester, their future even more uncertain and all enrolment), if they wish, hunt staff can Gloucestershire, GL7 7HX. hunt staff operate daily under the threat choose to opt out of the qualifying 01285 653001 or www.hsbs.org.uk. ● of prosecutions. It is marvellous that scheme and continue to pay premiums there are still young people willing to into the HSBS. come into this demanding profession and The HSBS is particularly lucky to The Horn and Hound Ball is now it is up to all of us to do what we can to have the Prince of Wales as its Patron a regular feature in the hunting help them. and Governor, who takes a great deal calendar and this year we are The advantage of the HSBS pension of interest in the Society and has been delighted to announce our new scheme is that it is specifi cally designed able to provide several highly successful title sponsor, Dubarry of Ireland. for hunt staff and members to take their fundraising events, such as polo matches To celebrate this supportive pensions with them from hunt to hunt, and garden tours of Highgrove. partnership we will be naming this and can continue to pay contributions There is also a charity, run in tandem year’s event the Dubarry Horn and if they leave hunt service. All the with the HSBS, known as the Hunt Hound Ball. Held at Cheltenham administration and regulatory expenses Servants’ Fund. This was originally set up Racecourse, on 23rd April, it is the are currently covered by subscriptions for ‘the relief of poverty’, which seems successor to the Horse and Hound and donations from supporters of hunting a rather old fashioned concept now, Ball and the National Horn Blowing but today is able to help hunt staff and Competition for the original and their dependants in all sorts of ways iconic Horse and Hound Cup is now Alastair Jackson has if they fi nd themselves in diffi culties. held here every year. A champagne been a Master and Huntsman of Recent examples have included helping reception and fi rst class dinner with foxhounds, and has worked for the widows of hunt staff, help with the wine is followed by dancing to the the BFSS and the CA. Director care and education of three orphaned amazing “29 Fingers” until the early of the Masters of Foxhounds Association for 15 years he now children, and buying equipment for hours – and all for £100 a ticket. works on fundraising for the a huntsman incapacitated following This fundraising evening is held in HSBS. He has judged hounds at a hunting accident. aid of the Hunt Staff Benefi t all the major shows on both sides At the end of the day everyone who Society (HSBS). of the Atlantic and has written For ball tickets call 01285 653001. several books on hunting. goes hunting, either on a horse, by car, or on foot should become an Honorary

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 43

43 jackson OK.indd 43 22/02/2016 15:29 6XSSO\ 

,QVWDOODWLRQ Looking for game feeding equipment? • Automatic feeders & timers RI3ODVWLF • Lamps & battery supplies Fred with Chudleigh • Remote camera systems 3LOLQJ With over 40 years • Fox traps & vermin controls experience in game • Drums for food & water keeping, ring & speak with Fred today. )RU5LYHUEDQN5HWHQWLRQ View online shop now! *URXQG6WDELOLVDWLRQ)LVKLQJ 3RQWRRQV5HVHUYRLU 'LWFK 5HSDLUV'RPHVWLF /DQGVFDSLQJ3URMHFWVRU )ORRG'HIHQFHV

 %(1(),76 ‡5HF\FOHG3ODVWLF ‡0DQXIDFWXUHGLQWKH8. ‡0DLQWHQDQFH)UHH ‡/LJKWHUWKDQ6WHHOVRHDVLHU WRKDQGOHDQGWUDQVSRUW Hope to see you at ‡'RHVQRWURWRUUXVW Broadlands Country Show 1st & 2nd May Highclere Game & Country Fair 29th & 30th May

WP FREE DELIVERY on all automatic feeders & cameras Quote CA1 when ordering! HLQIR#SODQHWODQGVFDSHVFRXN Tel: 01403 822471 Game Feeding Equipment is a trading division of ZZZSODQHWODQGVFDSHVFRXN Email: [email protected] Web: www.game-keepers.co.uk Rudgwick, West Sussex

p44_CA_Spring26.indd 44 22/02/2016 14:50 GET INVOLVED Feedback

➺ PLEASE SEND emails to [email protected] and letters to Editor, Countryside Alliance magazine, 1 Spring Mews, Tinworth to spend in Street, London, SE11 5AN – for a chance to win a £50 Chudleys voucher Win a £50 any Chudleys { RURAL VOICES} CHUDLEYS stockists Your letters Send us your grassroots views VOUCHER

The fellowship of the countryside Editor’s choice

I WRITE AS A CLAY, GAME people at this meeting, they themselves as supporters of AND WILDFOWL SHOOTER, were nonetheless accepted by hunting prior to attending this I have never hunted and horses all there and commented on meeting, they would all like to are a mystery to me. My cousin how nice and welcoming the attend further meets if that and her two teenage children people were. In the sudden was possible. who have no experience of cold snap they were grateful I would like to thank the fi eldsports were visiting from for the whisky, mince pies Pytchley hunt and all Australia over the Christmas and sausages provided by the concerned with this meet for period and I persuaded them hunt. Since they all ride at making my visitors welcome to attend the New Year’s Day home, they were able to admire and showing such a positive

meeting of the Pytchley Hunt. the horses and hounds. image of hunting. Please note this Pytchley photo was not Whilst my visitors were not All said that whilst they GORDON THOMPSON taken on New Year’s Day. Thanks to Rose Rodgers (www.photoboxgallery.com/ the most typically dressed would not have classed Northampton roserodgersphotography)

Congratulations to Gordon, winner of the £50 Chudleys voucher. www.chudleys.com

Saving the Scottish wildcat from extinction

THREATENED BY HYBRIDISATION with Heritage (SNH) is now planning to take cat-free habitat, and anyone can support it domestic feral cats, the Scottish wildcat has most of these last survivors into captivity, in by buying a souvenir plot for themselves or come to the precipice of extinction with spite of a huge failure rate when releasing as a gift from the website (more here https:// recent estimates of less than 100 “pure” captive-bred wildcats back into the wild; the www.wildcathaven.com/support/.) wildcats still surviving in the wild, and no future for Scotland’s cat is on a knife edge. It’s rather sad that what appears the last pure wildcats in captivity at all. International Union for Conservation hope for the wildcat depends on convincing Hope has emerged of Nature (IUCN) research has shown the people to buy gifts of souvenir land plots, through the Wildcat best wildcat conservation is in-situ and whilst hundreds of thousands of pounds of Haven (www. the results from Haven, on truly shoestring tax and Lottery money has been spent just wildcathaven.com) budgets, prove that it can be done; but far coming up with the SNH captivity plan, but project in the West more support is needed to help the project sometimes animals just slip through the net, Highlands which has expand quickly enough. and now it’s for those individuals who care neutered feral cats across In an effort to achieve this, Wildcat Haven about the wildcat to try and keep it safe. almost 500 square miles of land, creating has begun crowd-funding purchases of STEVE PIPER a still-expanding safe place for them to land to build a network of wildcat reserves, Wildcat Haven, Roy Bridge PH31 4WA re-populate. Unfortunately, Scottish Natural carefully managed to provide optimum, feral- @WildcatHavenUK

Representing shooting interests in Europe

ON 18TH NOVEMBER 2015, the European tackle real problems. There are some I met with Commission proposed a draft of changes to genuine concerns that the initial proposals Countryside European fi rearms laws, which have been in are unclear and poorly worded. Unless Alliance place since 1991. these are changed, there could be serious representatives and Some of the weapons used in the Charlie consequences for museums, sporting other stakeholders Hebdo attack were fi rearms that had organisations and historic re-enactments as as well as law and been converted into blank fi ring ‘acoustic’ well as the use of guns in fi lms. enforcement and fi rearms and then reconverted into live Fortunately it is possible to change ballistics experts fi rearms. Currently these ‘acoustic’ weapons the proposals before they become law. I both in the UK and in Brussels. I hope to are exempted from EU fi rearms legislation have volunteered to lead the European prepare new draft amendments by March and can be bought and sold without any Parliament’s work to negotiate new which we will continue to discuss before certifi cate or tracing in many EU countries, language. I have met with MEPs from across a vote in June. though not in the UK. It is right that we the continent and they are fi rmly committed VICKY FORD address any potential loopholes and try to to fi nding a new proposal that does not Conservative MEP for the East of England share best practice. overly restrict legal use, such as semi- European Parliament, Brussels However, we need to ensure the rules automatic .22 rifl es. Twitter: @vickyford

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 45

45 Letters se OK.indd 45 23/02/2016 10:02 FEATURE FALCONRY FOR SCHOOLS

Falconry for Schools swoops on a winning formula ➺ The Countryside Alliance Foundation’s Falconry for Schools project brings birds of prey into the classroom and shakes up traditional teaching methods with exceptional results. CHARLOTTE COOPER fi nds out more.

hat child in a post- Harry Potter world would not thrill to the idea of having owls andW other birds of prey in their classroom? But for some young pupils bringing birds into school is more than just a whiff of fresh air and a welcome distraction from the usual spellings and sums. It can lead to a breakthrough in concentration and good behaviour. Falconry for Schools was set up seven years ago for The Countryside Alliance Foundation by teacher and falconer Judith Wrighte. It follows the success of our Fishing 4 Schools project, which ties Falconry for Schools project in 24 schools.” hunt, why certain species are threatened angling activities to aspects of the National The project now has two further leaders with extinction and the world-wide Curriculum, and comprises a two-day – Sharon Bindon, who covers the Cornwall diversifi cation of birds of prey. course in falconry that includes maths, area and Sandra Johnson, who is based in “We explain how our birds of prey are science, history and geography. West Yorkshire. Ten two-day courses take looked after, their welfare, their housing “My love of falconry combined with place each year, but the instructors are very and how they are trained. We also look my biology knowledge and teaching keen to do more. at the importance of conservation and experience helped me assemble a Sandra’s journey into falconry started “IT WOULD BE FANTASTIC TO comprehensive learning package,” on a family holiday around 15 years ago HAVE THE FUNDING TO BE explained Judith. “Since then, I have led the and she now runs her own business ABLE TO TAKE THE COURSE – SMJ Falconry. INTO MORE SCHOOLS – Explaining the course, she said: “The is the PARTICULARLY THOSE FOR Charlotte Cooper Falconry for Schools course is fully funded Countryside Alliance’s Head of by the Countryside Alliance Foundation CHILDREN WITH LEARNING Media, promoting our charitable OR PHYSICAL DISABILITIES. I and campaigning work across and gives children an insight into falconry: a broad range of issues. how and when it started, how people THINK THERE IS TREMENDOUS of different nationalities have worked SCOPE IN THAT AREA.” with birds of prey over the centuries to

46 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

46-47 Falconry JH OK.indd 46 18/02/2016 09:56 FEATURE FALCONRY FOR SCHOOLS

how the birds survive in the wild with “WHEN I TOOK MY BIRDS their differing feeding techniques. The big INTO A SCHOOL FOR BOYS thing is for our birds to be present in the WHO HAVE BEHAVIOURAL, classroom and, where space and weather EMOTIONAL AND SOCIAL permit, be fl own to further demonstrate DIFFICULTIES, THE STUDENTS’ their natural abilities.” INVOLVEMENT IMPRESSED Sharon has been involved in falconry THE STAFF, WHO HAD RARELY since 2004 when “after a great deal SEEN SUCH ENGAGEMENT. of research and an intensive falconry THE BIRDS’ CALMING course” she bought her fi rst bird of prey, a INFLUENCE WAS PLAINLY female Harris hawk called Storm to hunt EVIDENT AND THE BOYS alongside her Springer spaniel Sophi. She HANDLED THEM WITH now has 30 birds of prey and set up her TENDERNESS AND RESPECT.” business Ancient Art Falconry in 2008. She said: “I love teaching in schools and if one child out of each class I teach gets or physical disabilities. I think there is involved in conservation tremendous scope in that area. then it means I have “I remember at one helped continue the work school, I was told one of to allow a little girl with Downs’ Syndrome of falconry for future the boys was autistic and to cuddle and hug her – I’m sure she could generations and we will normally only managed tell she needed to be gentle.” have birds of prey in the a short period in the Judith has also experienced the special countryside for many classroom so I was not to bond some children seem to form with the years to come. worry when he needed to birds. “Animal-assisted therapy has always “It would be fantastic be taken out. But he was intrigued me, in terms of encouraging to have the funding to be interested and engaged in disengaged students,” she said. “When able to take the course the session and took part I took my birds into a school for boys who into more schools – in the activities, staying have behavioural, emotional and social particularly those for in the classroom for the diffi culties, the students’ involvement children with learning whole lesson. He really impressed the staff, who had rarely seen enjoyed himself! such engagement. The birds’ calming “I also think the birds infl uence was plainly evident and the boys can sense that they are handled them with tenderness and respect.” interacting with someone In order for us to expand Falconry for who has a limitation. Schools further we need more funding. We A lady with a young man believe this project is an important way to in a wheelchair came over to us when help those children who lead increasingly I was displaying at a fête, some years ago indoor lives, learn about the countryside now. He could not speak, walk or move and nature. ● his arms but when I brought my barn owl over, she jumped straight onto his If you would like to make a donation to shoulder and snuggled up to his face. That or fundraise for Falconry for Schools, was not something I had trained the bird please contact Catrin Robinson on to do, she just did it off her own back – it catrin-robinson@countryside-alliance. absolutely made his day! And on another org or 0207 840 9212. occasion my tawny owl was quite happy

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 47

46-47 Falconry JH OK.indd 47 23/02/2016 09:43 www.kennelmate.co.uk Dog Beds that Work for Working Dogs

plus full range of Gundog Training Equipment Tel 07970 765637 • 01902 798167

Hunting Attire & Country Gift Collection www.huntingmad.co.uk

CAR MASCOTS

Louis Lejeune Ltd. 01353 740444 www.louislejeune.com

p48_CA_Spring16.indd 48 23/02/2016 11:31 GET INVOLVED Key dates, 2016

➺ MORE EVENTS Below are a few of the big dates for 2016 – our website has more at www.countryside-alliance.org/competitions/ upcoming-events Here are just some of the events and shows taking place over the coming months.

■ 15-18 March ■ 18-19 June The Festival, Cheltenham Racecourse, The Welsh Game Fair, Pembrey Country Gloucestershire Park, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire More at www.thefestival2016.co.uk/ http://welshgamefair.com/ #GCTxBBCTL0XZFCYh.99 @CheltenhamRaces #TheFestival ■ 23 June Newmarket Countryside Race Day at the ■ 19-20 March July Course, Newmarket The West of England Game Fair More information will appear in due course. ➺ 20 JULY – THE FESTIVAL OF at the Royal Bath and West Showground, HUNTING, Peterborough, Shepton Mallet. www.westcountrygamefair. ■ 30 June East of England Showground co.uk @EquineSW Wales and Border Counties Hound Show, The Countryside Alliance will be there as Builth Wells the hunting world gathers at the East of ■ 4-8 May England Showground for the unmissable The Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials, ■ 18-21 July Festival of Hunting. The greatest Badminton, Gloucestershire 2016 Royal Welsh Show at Builth Wells. gathering of hounds in the country. www.badminton-horse.co.uk/ Countryside Alliance Director for Wales, festivalofhunting.com. Follow on Twitter @bhorsetrials #MMBHT Rachel Evans, and her team will be at the @FestofHunting show to speak to you about campaigns, ■ 9-11 June the political landscape following the Welsh ■ 4 August South of England Show & Hound Shows, Assembly elections in May and the benefi ts The 126th Honiton Agricultural Show Ardingly, West Sussex of membership. Follow Rachel on including Hound Show, Honiton, Devon The Countryside Alliance will be at the hound Twitter @CAevs. show area so come and see us to watch the ■ 4-7 August hound shows, join us as a member and do ■ 12-14 July Countryfi le Live, Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire some shopping. www.seas.org.uk/event/ Great Yorkshire Show and Hound Shows, From the website: “BBC Countryfi le, Britain’s south-of-england-show-2016/ @seas_org Harrogate, North Yorkshire most watched factual television show will be The Countryside Alliance will be there to talk brought to life in a major new and innovative ■ 10-12 June to supporters, sign you up as a member and live countryside event. The website for the Field & Country Fair 2016, Cornbury Park, outline our campaigning priorities. event is www.countryfi lelive.com/ Oxfordshire More here http://greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/ @Countryfi lelive Celebrating the British countryside and fi eld @greatyorkshow sports, it is presented by Time Inc. UK, home ■ 11 August to a stable of iconic country and sporting ■ 22-24 July 113th Vale of Rydal Sheepdog Trials titles: The Field, Shooting Gazette, Shooting UK Game Fair, Stoneleigh NAEC, and Hound Show at Rydal Park, Ambleside Times, Sporting Gun, Country Life and Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. http://rydalshow.co.uk/ Horse & Hound. www.fi eldandcountryfair.com The UK Game Fair is designed to attract the @FieldCoFair core Game Fair following – both in terms of ■ 13-14 August Visit www.countryside-alliance.org for special exhibitors and visitors – and put fi eldsports Lowther Show and Hound Show at Lowther member ticket offer. back at the heart of rural events, with a clear Castle, Cumbria focus on shooting, fi shing, working dogs and www.lowthershow.co.uk/ rural estate management. ➺ 23-26 JUNE www.ukgamefair.com/ ■ 2-4 September ROYAL HIGHLAND For CA membership offer visit our website. Chatsworth Country Fair, SHOW, Ingliston, Chatsworth House, Derbyshire Edinburgh ■ 29-31 July www.chatsworthcountryfair.co.uk/ The Scottish The Game Fair, Ragley Hall, Alcester, Countryside Warwickshire. Celebrating British fi eld sports ■ 11 September Alliance will be at the Royal Highland and country life, The Game Fair boasts a Frampton Country Fair, Frampton on Severn, Show so come and see us, join as a comprehensive itinerary for the whole family, Glos, GL2 7EX member and fi nd out what we are up to. including gundog handling, clay shooting, http://framptoncountryfair.co.uk www.royalhighlandshow.org/ archery, fi shing, falconry and ferreting. See Follow the SCA on Twitter more at: www.thegamefair.org. ■ 17-18 September @ScotCountryside and the show on For CA membership offer see p7 Midland Game Fair, Weston Park, Shropshire @ScotlandRHShow Follow on Twitter @TheGameFair www.midlandgamefair.co.uk

www.countryside-alliance.org.uk SPRING 2016 l COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE 49

49 events se.indd 49 23/02/2016 13:29 COUNTRYSIDEMy

MIKE FORBES is a farmer, entrepreneur and former Scottish national fl y fi shing champion whose resort, Forbes of Kingennie near Dundee, is an enviable enterprise.

was delighted to be asked to write I a few words in the spring 2016 edition of the Countryside Alliance’s magazine. It’s really quite hard to explain Mike and Gail Forbes the true passion I have for the Scottish pictured at countryside. I suppose at the very stem Forbes of Kingennie is my deep rooted desire to farm. I don’t think I would be classed as a traditional “Life has not always are huge supporters of Casting for farmer as I have become so diverse, to Recovery where, in combination with the the extent that people now regularly ask been plain sailing Countryside Alliance, we run weekends which of the various enterprises I have and after leukaemia for ladies suffering from various stages started and still run do I enjoy the most? of breast cancer. We are also passionate I farm around 1,000 acres in Angus, struck me twice, my in supporting Tayside Children with Scotland where I have a Multiplication focus was as much Cancer and Leukaemia (TCCL), Marie Pig Unit for PIC and produce around Curie, and Insight Counselling. 20,000 pigs a year which are fed on about ‘giving back’ When I do get away I love to fi sh in co-products from the brewery and food as it was about the wildest of wild places in the Outer world. I grow around 150 acres of maize Hebrides and on remote Scottish estates. for my anaerobic digester, I have around forging forward.” I have recently fi shed at Amhuinnsuidhe 25 acres of table-top strawberries grown Castle on North Harris, Loch Gorm in tunnels producing around 350 tons of dedicated staff that feel valued and on the Island of Islay, and Tulchan on strawberries for Sainsbury. I also grow rewarded, plus the helpful endeavours of Speyside. Not only do I love fi shing but I cereals, beans, potatoes (rented out), all my family. really enjoy shooting and training dogs, I have a 250KWh anaerobic digester, Forbes of Kingennie originally started once again travelling to some of the producing power via an engine back into in 1995 as the stall and sow tether ban most magnifi cent areas Scotland has to the grid and also supplying electricity to was looming and I was nervous of offer. I try to integrate some of my sport my pig unit. This AD plant also produces having all my eggs in one basket. At that into farming and in particular, where hot water which heats strawberry time I had recently become National Fly the new “Greening” rules have allowed tunnels and heats the main digester itself fi shing Champion of Scotland and felt the planting of 2m grass end rigs it has which runs on pig manure, pig slurry that investing some time into a derelict allowed me to start a grey partridge and maize. old boathouse and silted up lochan on reintroduction programme. As I write, In addition, I have a tourist business a corner of the farm could, potentially, spring is hopefully not far away and the called Forbes of Kingennie with a golf start an alternative business to farming. thought of March Browns drifting down course which has 280 members, 16 Kingennie Fishings, as it was known the river Tummel and olives hatching on lodges, four lochans for sport fi shing, then, grew from strength to strength the Tay will take me away from those a function room for around 200 people and from its humble beginnings, now long dark winter nights and allow me to where we do around 100 weddings employs 48 staff at its peak, attracts dust down my fi shing gear once again. ● a year (www.forbesofkingennie.com), around 30,000 visitors a year and has a restaurant and bar and various a turnover well in excess of £1m a year. Ladies who have (or have had) breast other attractions. Life has not always been plain sailing cancer are invited to apply to attend a Casting for Recovery retreat at Well, I hear you say, where on earth and after leukaemia struck me twice, my Kingennie from 23-25 September, does he get time to do anything but focus was as much about “giving back” hosted by the Forbes family. Visit www. work? The truth of the matter is the as it was about forging forward. Because castingforrecovery.org.uk to apply or email above can only happen with great of this this myself and my family [email protected] for information.

Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort, Kingennie, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, DD5 3RD. Telephone: 01382 350777 website: www.forbesofkingennie.co.uk email: [email protected] Twitter @Kingennieresort

50 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE l SPRING 2016 www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

50 My countryside se OK.indd 50 17/02/2016 17:50 Is the person next to you a member? Introduce them to the Countryside Alliance and receive a £10 voucher*

To qualify ask your friend to call 020 7840 9300 to purchase their membership.

They will need to quote your membership number for you to receive your £10 voucher in the post. *Vouchers can be used against new memberships and renewals. There is no limit to how many friends you can introduce. www.countryside-alliance.org.uk/join

Follow us on @CAUpdates and facebook

CA filler.indd 1 22/02/2016 14:55 Countryside alliance members can take advantage of association guest tickets of the Great see www.thegamefair.org for details British Countryside

29th-31st JULY 2016

RAGLEY HALL ALCESTER, WARWICKSHIRE

BUY TICKETS FIND US: IN ADVANCE BUY TICKETS FREE the IN ADVANCE PARKING gamefair .org 0844 DOGS REMEMBER ONLINE 776 7777 KIDS GO HOTLINE WELCOME FREE! #THEGAMEFAIR

National Game Fair.indd 1 15/02/2016 12:21