COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE C A M P A I G N S
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C O M M E N T
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C U L T U R E
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C O M M U N I T Y
AUTUMN 2012
Hunting Under the Act
RURAL LIFE IN FOCUS
countryside-alliance.org.uk
NOMINATE NOW! RURAL OSCARS OPEN
The winners of our photo competition Gamekeepers Praise for the unsung heroes
Sweet life
The world of the honey producer
A FRESH ANGLE INSPIRING STORIES FROM FISHING 4 SCHOOLS PLUS NEWS EVENTS RECIPES
Contents
PLUS
CELEBRATE GAME-TO-EAT MONTH Page 25
AUTUMN 2012
EDITOR’S LETTER
T
his autumn we are very proud to introduce you to our new-look magazine, which has undergone something of a refresh; I hope you enjoy this first edition. Ahead of the hunting season, Campaigns Director, Tim Bonner, takes stock and examines the Hunting Act’s impact (page 26). The results of our “Hunting Under the Act” photo competition are also unveiled, matching Tim’s view that hunting has a united and long future to look forward to (page 18). On page 16, Dr Andrew Hoodless of the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust writes about shooting’s worth to conservation while Charles Nodder of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation salutes the tireless work of the ‘keeper (page 29). Our Moorlands Director Adrian Blackmore writes in praise of the red grouse on page 35 and we encourage you to get involved
“I hope you enjoy the first edition of our new-look magazine” in Game-to-Eat’s first “Go Wild with British Game” month this November (page 25). Also in this packed issue, we bring you our Rural Crime Manifesto (page 13), a report on our Fishing 4 Schools’ Champions reception at Parliament (page 32), launch the 2012 ‘Rural Oscars’ (page 22) and feature a “how to” on ferreting for our younger readers (page 43). Enjoy the magazine, enjoy the season.
Jill Grieve
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
26 IN THIS ISSUE 32 Fishing 4 Schools
NEWS AND CAMPAIGNS 04 News
The scheme championing young anglers
National Shooting Week; Olympic success; highlights of the quarter and more
13 Campaign Launching our manifesto on rural crime
FEATURES 16 Conservation 18 Competition We reveal the winners of our Hunting Under the Act photographic competition
Celebrate by cooking up one of our recipes for family and friends Our Campaigns Director reflects on the failure of the Hunting Act
Editor Jill Grieve
Insurance hotline 0871 919 9172
Chief Sub Editor Marianne Smedley
Campaigns 020 7840 9250
Creative Director James Houston
Events and fundraising 020 7840 9298
Publisher James Pembroke
PR and media 020 7840 9220
Valentine Warner’s grilled venison chops
Seasonal tips from our experts, plus what you’re saying on Twitter
47 Events
26 Message from Tim Bonner
24-hour legal hotline 0871 919 3505
GET INVOLVED 41 Recipe of the quarter
45 Feedback
25 Game-to-Eat month
Chairman Kate Hoey MP
As Christmas approaches why not visit our online shop for gift ideas?
Our new series introducing younger supporters to countryside activities
Nominations for our awards are now open – who will you choose?
Membership hotline 020 7840 9300
How we’re extending our welcome and banishing misconceptions
43 Young members
22 Rural Oscars
Celebrating some of the countryside’s hidden heroes
Respect is due for this wily game bird
36 Hunting Newcomers’ week 38 Countryside Marketplace
Calling for more research into how game management protects rural areas
29 Gamekeepers
35 In praise of… red grouse
From exhibitions and game dinners to races and balls, find an event near you
50 My countryside Jez Daughtry describes the delights of his role as a head beekeeper Regions Find your local representative on page 47 or visit countrysidealliance.org.uk
By post Countryside Alliance, The Old Town Hall, 367 Kennington Road, London SE11 4PT
Advertising Vicky Ashby, Advertising Manager 01225 337777 vickya@jppublishing.co.uk
Countryside Alliance Ireland info@countrysidealliance ireland.org 02892 639911
Fax 020 7793 8484
Countryside Alliance magazine is published four times a year on behalf of the Countryside Alliance by James Pembroke Publishing, 90 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG. Tel: 01225 337777
Scottish Countryside Alliance info@scottishcountryside alliance.org 0131 335 0200
Website countryside-alliance. org.uk Email info@countrysidealliance.org
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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M o r e n e w s Sign up for our regular Grass e-route newsletter: www.countryside-alliance.org/ca/grass-e-route
News
Round-up of the stories that matter to you
On target: Students from the Durand Academy in London got a taste of countryside sports
Welcome from our Executive Chairman
EVENT
London youngsters enjoy National Shooting Week Unforgettable day for newcomers to the sport
T
he fifth annual National Shooting Week took place in early June, with over 70 shooting grounds and clubs holding events. The aim of the week is to encourage newcomers into shooting sports, especially the so-called ‘X-Box Generation’ who often have limited opportunities to get out into the countryside. One such group was a class from the Durand Academy in Stockwell, London. The youngsters had never shot before but were taken out to the West Kent Shooting School by the Countryside Alliance and given a day they will never forget. The shooting school’s exceptional team of instructors made sure the youngsters felt happy and confident as they took their first shots. The youngsters were
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delighted by their new experience, which included being filmed by our film unit (see the film at www.countryside-alliance. org.uk), and being interviewed by The Independent on Sunday. It doesn’t get much better – for the youngsters or for the campaign to promote shooting sports. N at i o n a l S h o o t i n g W e e k
t h e s tat s
74 participating grounds 3,000 newcomers to shooting sports during the week One happy inner-city London class!
That was quite a mixed summer we’ve just had. Awful weather saw us lose many major rural events, with huge impact on our small rural businesses. Farmers haven’t had it much easier; dairy men were forced to take to the streets and the rain has meant forage has been hard to save and high corn prices are only helpful if you can get the corn in. Many shoots lost poults in the downpours; rivers have been unfishable. Yet it hasn’t all been bad news. The Olympics stirred a new pride in the United Kingdom and we have all been moved by the displays of sporting excellence, fair play and good humour. The wonderful example set by our equestrian teams and our shooters will surely encourage future generations. We’ve also seen the RSPCA drop its first case against Heythrop Huntsman Julian Barnfield, but at huge cost to their members and the taxpayer. I urge you to read Tim Bonner’s piece (page 26); he explains our opponents’ feeling that continuing to throw their members’ money at a lost cause is worthwhile. Similarly lead shot continues to be under threat. Thanks to all who have lobbied their MEPs in our e-lobby. This show of strength has put the issue firmly in the spotlight in Brussels. We will continue to keep the pressure on. Please remember rural traders as Christmas approaches: use our online shop to help them stay in business, and give them a boost by nominating them in our 2012 “Rural Oscars” (page 22). Above all, enjoy the coming sporting season, but be mindful of the major issues we still face as a rural community. Barney White-Spunner, Executive Chairman
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
Game on: Find out how game management is helping to boost the number of birds such as curlews page 16
Left: The showjumping team celebrate their breathtaking gold victory Below: The eventing team did us proud with their silver medal win
The Quarter OUR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST THREE MONTHS JUNE The Countryside Alliance’s AGM took place at the Union Jack Club in London, presided over by Chairman Kate Hoey MP (pictured). At the meeting, Tim Vestey was elected unopposed to the board. We were also sad to learn of the death of George Ridley, founder of the Whitfield Clay Shoot which has raised so much money for our work. His legacy is a passion for the countryside.
SP ORT
Olympic glory for Team GB LONDON 2012 exceeded everyone’s
expectations as the Team GB medal tally hurtled past our Beijing 2008 haul, bringing great pride to every corner of our islands. The eventing team’s silver medal was an early high point, followed closely by young Dorset farmer’s son Peter Wilson taking a nail-biting gold in the Double Trap. The showjumping team’s breathtaking gold in the second week of the Games was our first since 1952, and was followed by the dressage team also showing the Midas touch by making their first ever Olympic
medal a gold: a team gold followed by individual gold for Charlotte Dujardin and bronze for Laura Bechtolsheimer. The final day of competition, the Glorious 12th no less, brought silver for Samantha Murray in Modern Pentathlon, finishing the Olympics off in strong style. Increasing participation and opportunities for everyone to try these sports must be a goal now and, with Hunting Newcomers’ Week (see page 36) and National Shooting Week round the corner, there are chances for us all to help highlight fieldsports’ role in Team GB’s Olympic glory.
J U LY Heavy rain unfortunately saw several country shows cancelled. These events included the Highland Show, Gatcombe, the Scottish Game Fair, the Great Yorkshire Show and the CLA Game Fair at Belvoir Castle (pictured), among others. The Countryside Alliance ran a “virtual Yorkshire Show” listing the stallholders who had lost out, saying: “We hope these businesses are only washed out, not washed up.” AUGUST
Above: Peter Wilson with his glorious gold in Double Trap Right: GB’s dressage team share a groundbreaking golden moment
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The London Olympics were the only story in town, with equestrian and shooting medals adding to Team GB’s record haul (see story, left). Commemorative stamps were launched by the Royal Mail to celebrate each gold (pictured). The RSPCA quietly dropped its private prosecution against Heythorp Huntsman Julian Barnfield. The court, however, decided that the taxpayer should pay for the failure of the RSPCA’s prosecution. More information on our website.
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News
C A M PA IGN U P DAT E
Countryside Alliance and Google get rural businesses online THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE has teamed up with internet search engine giant Google to promote rural businesses and help them get online. The high-profile hook-up identified a top 20 list of Rural Digital Trailblazers (see top 10, below) who are using the internet to grow their businesses. The Trailblazers list aims to highlight that entrepreneurs needn’t be based in an industrial centre or an urban hub to start or grow a business; an enterprise that uses the internet can be located anywhere.
THE UK’S TOP 10 GOOGLE RURAL DIGITAL TRAILBLAZERS Town
Growth over past year
1 Braunton 2 Corsham 3 Hockley 4 Bourne 5 Newhaven 6 Mold 7 Henley on Thames 8 Great Dunmow 9 Ulverston 10 Bewdley
43.5% 39.4% 37% 34.6% 34.6% 33.3% 31.4% 30.8% 30.4% 28%
The MPs of the Trailblazing areas were invited to a Parliament reception in midJuly. At the reception, Alliance Board Member Simon Hart MP joined Google UK Managing Director Dan Cobley to voice support for rural business. They impressed upon MPs the importance of the internet in growing rural enterprises. The village of Braunton in Devon topped the Trailblazers list with a massive 43% growth. Google shortlisted the rural villages with the highest online economic activity, and then, using AdWords, ranked them in terms of the percentage increase in local enterprises over the past year. According to the Boston Consulting Group, companies with an online presence grow from four to eight times faster than companies without. Drop-in clinics were held in the top five Trailblazing towns from July to September to offer Google’s expert advice to local businesses so they can build on their successes. The events were well received and local business people have been inspired to use the internet to further develop their enterprises.
For more information visit www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
Code gets an update THE CODE of Good Shooting Practice has been revised and updated. The code, which is agreed by all shooting organisations, establishes a standard for all responsible gun and shoot owners. To get your free copy of the code please contact info@countryside-alliance.org
10 to do 1
Buy your season shooting badges (pictured) at www. thecountrysideshop.com 2
Go to the Game Shooting Seminar, Bridge Hotel, Walshford, Wetherby, 26 October. Email: simon-hamlyn@ countryside-alliance.org 3
Mingle at the Cheltenham Countryside Race Day, 16 November: www.cheltenham.co.uk/fixtures/ the-open/countryside-day/about 4
Nominate in the Countryside Alliance Awards: www.countrysideallianceawards.org.uk 5
Organise a game lunch or dinner party during Game-to-Eat “Go Wild with British Game Month” this November: www.gametoeat.co.uk (see page 25) 6
Get your Christmas cards, 2013 calendars and more at www. thecountrysideshop.com 7
Celebrate Hunting Newcomers’Week in the second week of October: www. countryside-alliance.org.uk 8
Read the blog Liberty & Livelhood March Director James Stanford has written for us to mark the 10th anniversary of the great event. www.countryside-alliance.org.uk 9
Support your hunt’s Opening Meet: www.mfha.co.uk 10
Follow us on Twitter @CAupdates and ‘Like’ us on Facebook
Fishing in focus Throughout the summer the Angling Trust ran an online angling survey as part of a National Participation Plan. The Countryside Alliance is a supportive partner of the plan, and we are trying to get as many people into angling as possible. Our exceptional Fishing 4 Schools project is a cornerstone of this, bringing angling opportunities and widening access for youngsters (see page 32).
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www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
BIOFLOW BEATS JOHN’S BAD BACK For 3 years, agricultural worker and sportsman, John Dunston was unable to work or even to climb the stairs to go to bed. He tried osteopathy, acupuncture and was taking high doses of strong painkillers every day but nothing eased the pain of his badly damaged spine until his wife, Pat, bought him a Bioflow magnetic therapy wristband. Pat found out about Bioflow from a friend whose Jack Russell suffered from severe arthritis and had been unable to move freely. Pat was amazed to see that when the dog started wearing a Bioflow magnetic collar he was back to running around like a pup. She felt that Bioflow must be worth a try for John and bought him an Elite wristband. Although not totally free of pain, John is now back at work full time and is able to live a normal life. Pat, her horse and her spaniel, now all benefit from wearing Bioflow products for different problems. Bioflows’ benefits are widely recognised and they are now used by over 2,000,000 people and animals in Britain to help with a wide variety of problems. For further information, please contact: Jenny Ryan, 0114 2307844 / 07817671259; 16 Den Bank Crescent, Sheffield S10 5PD jennyryan@magneticpower4u.com www.magneticpower4u.net
News Fire power: Ashley Fox MEP and Olympic shooting coach Ian Coley
EVENT
Liberty & Livelihood March celebrates 10th anniversary
Quickfire
Q&A
Tracey Allen, Editor of Countryman’s Weekly, tells us what matters to her readers What is the most important issue to a Countryman’s reader? That their right to experience and enjoy the country sports they love is always fought for against those who continuously strive to take it away. Does the Countryside Alliance represent your readers? The Alliance represents all those who live, work and enjoy their sport in the countryside regardless of their gender, age and social standing, and that encompasses our diverse cross-sectional readership perfectly. What is the biggest concern of your readers right now? The ever-increasing rise in the numbers of foxes that are not only affecting gamebird numbers but attacking and causing inconvenience to members of the public in urban areas. A large number of our readers support the view that the fox problem needs to be tackled sooner rather than later. Why do you love the countryside? The countryside has an amazing ability to instil inner calm – a quality that should never be taken for granted. It can also help to create a real sense of community among people who would otherwise lead disjointed lives.
LOB BY I NG
Lead shot e-lobby hits Europe COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE’S lead shot e-lobby of Members of the European Parliament was a hit in the summer, with over 18,000 emails sent from concerned supporters to MEPs across the UK. The response from MEPs was robust, with several, including Marina Yannakoudakis MEP and Julie Girling MEP, stating their support for our rural heritage. Ashley Fox, MEP for the South West of England and Gibraltar, even set up a shooting lesson with former British hot shot and GB Olympic Coach Ian Coley at his shooting school just outside of Cheltenham. Mr Coley is also firmly opposed to any threat to the use of lead shot and was delighted to show Mr Fox around his ground. The Countryside Alliance is deeply concerned that well-intentioned EU
www.countryside-alliance. org.uk
countrysidealliance. org.uk March memories: James Stanford recalls the event in his blogs
Countryside Alliance at fly-tipping summit
Ongoing issue: Summit seeks solutions to the persistent problem of fly-tipping
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legislation could spell disaster for rural shooting. The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) has started to look into the issues surrounding the use of lead. Evidence gathered in the UK has consistently failed to support the outlawing of lead shot across the continent. A blanket ban would be deeply damaging to the rural economy and communities that enshrine both recreational and professional shooting as a way of life and livelihood. “This time it is the shooting community that potentially finds itself in the firing line,” said Mr Coley. “Shooting isn’t just for sport or hunting, it is often used by farmers as a means of pest control.” You can still lobby your MEPs from our website at
THE LIBERTY & Livelihood March saw nearly half a million supporters of the rural way of life descend on London on Sunday 22 September 2002. A global event, many of us have great memories of the day that saw the countryside show its strength in numbers. March Director James Stanford has blogged for us exclusively, revealing how the team did it and his memories. He asks: “Was it all worthwhile? That has to be the subject for a separate debate. As it stands, and despite the outlawing of hunting in its traditional form since 2005, almost every pack of hounds continues to follow a trail at least weekly throughout the country and, to date, none of them have been disbanded. “Perhaps above all, the Liberty & Livelihood March showed the world at large, and politicians in particular, the strength we can muster when roused to defend our cause.” Read James’ blog at www.
CONCERNED WITH the impact of fly-tipping on our countryside, the Countryside Alliance attended July’s Ministerial Summit to address the problem. Key stakeholders such as the NFU, CLA and the Highways Agency also attended the summit as attempts were made to tackle England’s 800,000-incident-a-year problem. The aim of the event was to promote regional and local projects, champion affordable solutions and find an holistic approach to dealing with the problem. The day provided us all with the opportunity to make our case to Defra minister Lord Taylor of Holbeach and to share our experiences and ideas on how to tackle this scourge of the countryside. We look forward to seeing the conclusions of this important summit in the autumn.
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News
Movers and Shakers
Edward Gillespie In this new feature about those who contribute to our way of life, Jill Grieve speaks to Cheltenham Racecourse Managing Director E D WA R D G I L L E S P I E
EDWARD GILLESPIE is to leave his post of 32 years after The Open in November. The Open of course begins with the iconic Countryside Race Day (16 November) which this year will raise funds for the Countryside Alliance and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled. Edward wants to raise £200,000 for his swansong Race Day, so please come and help achieve that. Last year more than £40,000 was raised for Equestrian Team GBR, so Alliance members and supporters have contributed to Olympic medal success! Edward, when did you arrive at the course and what was your first task? I arrived in May 1980, having been Racecourse Manager at Kempton Park and Sandown Park for five years. I took over from Alan Morris, who had come from outside racing and had done a great deal in breaking up the way Cheltenham had been managed for many years. My first task was to establish the best possible relationship with every customer group to build volume in the business. What has been the best race in your time at Cheltenham? There have been so many in 32 years. Dawn Run’s 1986 Gold Cup win and Synchronised’s 2012 Gold Cup win would be right at the top. No-one exemplifies the Cheltenham spirit better than Jonjo O’Neill, who rode Dawn Run and trained Synchronised. Course leader: Edward has fantastic memories of past Race Days
What has been your personal highlight as Managing Director? Seeing so many happy faces at every race meeting, be it the Festival, The Open, New Year’s Day or other occasions. I believe we have managed to retain a simplicity and authenticity about a day’s racing at Cheltenham that is now unique. What have been the most notable changes in racing in your time here? One of my legacies, I hope, is to have retained lots of elements that others might have changed. However, the Cross Country Course would be one change – it has allowed horses not suited to normal courses to become successful and popular. The route for horses returning after races used to go round the back of the stands; we changed that early on and it’s become very much part of the Cheltenham experience. The parade ring is another change, with the winning enclosure within it – this has made a huge contribution to the drama.
“We have retained a simplicity about a day’s racing at Cheltenham that is now unique” How has The Open, including the Countryside Race Day, evolved? By means of improving the races, offering travel incentives for Irish horses that increased the number of runners and introduced an Irish flavour, and extending to include the Sunday. The three days now attract over 60,000 people and The Open has an atmosphere all of its own. A word about the Countryside Race Day committee? It’s been terrific working with them since the two Michaels (Talbot-Ponsoby and
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Allsopp) came in to suggest the formula that initially benefited the Countryside Foundation. Introducing our nominated charity each year has kept the day fresh. This year it is Riding for the Disabled. Is there ever a good time to leave? Yes. Before you hear people suggesting that time is near. The business is in tremendous shape; we have a great team of managers who have delivered three successive years unchanged; and I am still young and energetic enough to move on to something else. What will you miss most? The customers and the staff. I love them all. They never cease to entertain me. What will you go on to do next? I have no intentions of putting up my feet, and am encouraged by the number of calls I’ve received. Ideally, I’d find something in racing and something totally different. Will racing continue to thrive? Cheltenham has the most fantastic management team and, in Ian Renton, a new leader who will do a great job in moving the business forward but retain the passion that is so essential for this extraordinary place to thrive. Jump racing faces many challenges and needs nurturing. It’s important to keep the widest possible range of citizens on-side, way beyond those who actually go racing.
JOIN US! Cheltenham Countryside Race Day takes place on Friday 16 November. Book your tickets today at www.cheltenham.co.uk
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
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POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONERS Campaigns G O O N L I N E Download the Police Commissioners’ Manifesto – Rural Crime Matters at www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
Your vote counts: Elect a Commissioner who knows about rural issues
S ER TT A M E IM CR L A R U R – TO ES IF N A POLICE COMMISSIONERS’ M
Launching our manifesto on rural crime Newly elected Police and Crime Commissioners will have real responsibility over local policing, so it’s crucial we vote for ones who will listen to our views on the countryside. That’s why we’ve published a Police Commissioners’ Manifesto – Rural Crime Matters. SAR AH LEE REPORTS
SAR AH LEE is the Countryside Alliance’s Head of Policy
CRIME IS A KEY ISSUE for people living in the countryside and this November will allow communities across England and Wales to have a say in how they are policed, with the inaugural elections of Police and Crime Commissioners. The Home Secretary, Theresa May, describes this as “the most important change” to policing, with Commissioners having “real responsibility – and real
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power – over local policing”. Commissioners will have the power to appoint the Chief Constable and, if necessary, to dismiss them. Commissioners will set the policing plan for their force area and then be responsible for ensuring Chief Constables deliver those plans and cut crime levels in their area. The Government insists the introduction of these elected Police Commissioners will make
forces more accountable to the public they serve, whilst maintaining the operational independence of the police. However, exclusive polling, conducted for the Countryside Alliance by ComRes, shows that 76% of people living in rural areas are doubtful that policing in their local area would change with the introduction of an elected Police Commissioner. In fact, 66% of rural
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONERS Campaigns
POLICE COMMISSIONERS’ M
ANIFESTO – RURAL CRIME
WHAT WE ARE DOING ■ Ensuring candidates, politicians and the media understand that crime is a key concern in rural communities and must be taken seriously. ■ Sending all candidates a copy of our Police Commissioners’ Manifesto – Rural Crime Matters. ■ Engaging with politicians, candidates and the public at the political party conferences focussing on the theme of rural crime. ■ Releasing exclusive polling and research showing that police forces in England and Wales
people agreed that elected Police Commissioners will merely be an added layer of bureaucracy. Engaging the electorate Commissioners clearly have a mountain to climb to convince rural people that they are going to make a real difference to policing in rural areas. Coupled with voter apathy, the election date (15 November) and limited campaign funding, concerns are already being raised about voter turnout being low. It is not in the interests of anybody to have Commissioners elected by a tiny proportion of the electorate. The Countryside Alliance has therefore published a Police Commissioners’ Manifesto – Rural Crime Matters to help candidates engage with rural communities and the policing issues that matter to them. We want to encourage rural voters to come out and vote for candidates who demonstrate an understanding that they have listened to rural communities and show an understanding that rural crime matters. Our manifesto asks Police Commissioners to ensure:
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are already operating with fewer police officers, police community support officers (PCSOs) and special officers per head of population (see panel, right). WHAT YOU CAN DO ■ Find out who your local candidates are. ■ Let them know what your concerns are, or what problems you face in your community with regard to crime. ■ Get out and vote for a candidate who demonstrates an understanding that rural crime matters.
• Fair funding for rural communities; • Rural crimes are taken seriously; • Proper rural representation on community policing groups; and • Police plans are rural proofed. This is particularly important with the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review concluding that police funding will be reduced by 14% in real terms by 2014-15 and, as a result of this, police forces across England and Wales being asked to deliver the same level of service with fewer resources. Research undertaken by the Countryside Alliance shows that rural areas are already operating with fewer police officers, police community support officers, and special officers per head of population and a key task for the elected Commissioners will be to ensure that rural areas do not see numbers further depleted. With these changes looming on the horizon, the Countryside Alliance wants to ensure crime in the countryside is not forgotten. Our Manifesto will help candidates to engage with rural communities and ensure that they understand that tackling crime is as much a priority for electors in the countryside as anywhere else.
MATTERS
{ Police and Crime Commissioners: The Stats }
Elections for Commissioners will be held on 15 November 2012 in England and Wales.
76%
of people living in rural areas are doubtful that policing in their local area would change with the introduction of an Elected Police Commissioner.
66
%
of rural people agreed that Elected Police Commissioners will be an added an extra layer of bureaucracy.
52
% of respondents in rural
areas said Britain’s forces needed to have police strategies that were different for different places. In 2011-12 there was one police officer for 1,037 people in rural areas, compared with 581 people in urban areas. This is 44% more people for every one police officer in rural areas. In 2011-12 there was one police community support officer for 4,794 people in rural areas, compared with 3,530 people in urban areas. This is 26% more people for every one PCSO in rural areas. In 2011-12 there was one special officer for 3,335 people in rural areas compared with 3,004 people in urban areas. This is 10% more people for every one special officer in rural areas.
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FEATURE
CONSERVATION
“Game management is key to conservation” As the countryside faces increasing demands, we need more research into the vital role game and wildlife management play, writes A N D R E W H O O D L E S S
F
EW WOULD ARGUE that alongside agriculture, game management has been a major influence in shaping the British countryside over the past 100 years. Whilst agricultural intensification has resulted in an increasingly fragmented landscape, impoverished for wildlife, game shooting has provided an incentive for the retention and management of habitats, such as heather moorland and woodland, which can have benefits for a wide range of species other than gamebirds. Game management continues to provide a huge amount of private investment for wildlife conservation, the scale of which is often not appreciated by the public or is overlooked by conservation organisations. Research at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has documented many of the benefits to wildlife of management associated with gamebirds. For instance, we know that moors managed for grouse typically have five times as many golden plovers and lapwings as unmanaged moors and about twice as many curlews. Management of woods for pheasants results in higher densities of warblers in summer and typically higher numbers of woodland butterflies, as a consequence of more low shrubby cover in these woods. However, it would be naïve to expect the effects of game management to be entirely beneficial. For viable driven
A N DR E W HO ODL E SS is Head of Wetland Research at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT)
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shooting, grouse and pheasants are maintained at artificially high densities and this can cause issues for certain other species. Songbirds favouring tall heather, such as stonechats and whinchats, occur at lower densities on grouse moors than on unmanaged moors and sensitive woodland flora in release pens can be damaged for at least 20 years as a result of trampling and nitrification. The need for research This type of evaluation is important. Why? Because the countryside faces greater demands upon it than ever before. To meet the food needs of the projected growth in world population over the next 40 years, there will be increased pressure for production and hence a greater squeeze on habitats for game and wildlife. The contribution of game management to conservation and the landscape is likely to come under closer scrutiny. In order to demonstrate its relevance to wildlife conservation in the future, the relationship between game management and emerging environmental concepts, such as ecosystem services and landscape-scale conservation, will need to be firmly established. The GWCT advocates conservation policies based on sound science and our research has always been applied and directed towards providing solutions to management questions. It is vital that research is valued for what it can deliver and game managers embrace science in order to lead good practice in land management. Research can be seen as expensive or taking a long time to produce answers, but it has the potential to prevent costly mistakes and ensure
FURTHER INFORMATION To read more about the work of the GWCT, visit www.gwct.org.uk
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FEATURE
CONSERVATION
What is the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust?
Moors managed for grouse have five times as many lapwings…
… and twice as many curlews
“THE CONTRIBUTION OF GAME MANAGEMENT TO CONSERVATION AND THE LANDSCAPE IS LIKELY TO COME UNDER CLOSER SCRUTINY”
that management decisions are effective and actions are sustainable. Where game management comes into question or is directly under attack, hard facts are essential to enable informed decisions and to justify a particular position.
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Trust’s farmland research has already fed into the design of options within agrienvironment schemes. It is clear, however, that in most cases habitat manipulation alone is not delivering the full benefits desired of agri-environment schemes for birds. Government agencies could learn from the key principles of game management – habitat (for nesting, brood rearing and winter cover), food (for adults and chicks), disease control and reduction in predation pressure. Testing and trialling of those elements that are currently missing from wildlife policies could help reverse the declines of certain species.
Top image: Laurie Campbell
Lessons in wildlife management So, research translated into advice and codes of practice can help to ensure and demonstrate that game management is undertaken responsibly and with an awareness of environmental impacts. With increasing scrutiny of practices such as pheasant rearing and fox snaring, responsible game management is not optional. However, the type of research undertaken by the GWCT is also crucial in translating the lessons learned from game management into effective policies for wildlife management more generally. Game biologists pioneered wildlife research on arable land. Our grey partridge study on the Sussex Downs showed the detrimental indirect effects of crop herbicides on chick-food insects and pointed the way for much of the recent work on the declines of other farmland birds. Much of the
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is an independent charity reliant on voluntary donations and the support of people who care about the survival of our natural heritage. It conducts scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife and uses the findings to advise farmers and landowners on sustainable wildlife management. It lobbies for agricultural and conservation policies based on science. Many of the Trust’s supporters participate in field sports and invest in managing wildlife habitat in the countryside. As Head of Wetland Research at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Andrew Hoodless oversees research on breeding wader declines, the effectiveness of agri-environment schemes for lapwings and various projects on woodcock ecology and populations. His recent novel work on woodcock migration was supported by a grant from The Countryside Alliance Foundation.
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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FEATURE
HUNTING UNDER THE ACT
PHOTO FINISH
The Countryside Alliance’s 2012 ‘Hunting Under the Act’ amateur photographic competition gave entrants the chance to show that, despite the ban, hunts are still thriving. J I L L G R I E V E introduces the winners and commended entries
COMMENDED ‘Torrington Farmers’ BY VICKI G U S COT T
COMMENDED ‘ChidLec’ B Y P I P PA THORMAN
T
he ‘Hunting Under the Act’ amateur photographic competition was launched in February, marking the seventh anniversary of the Hunting Act coming into force in England and Wales. Not a landmark anyone wanted to celebrate, but worth marking nevertheless. ‘Hunting Under the Act’ gave entrants the opportunity to show that hunts are still here, still operating – and that we are determined to push for repeal. The hundreds of submissions we received from around the UK demonstrated many different aspects of hunting, with the key theme that people, horses and hounds of all sorts are in good heart, their passion for venery undimmed. Our experienced judging panel comprised Countryside Alliance Executive Chairman, former Baily’s editor and ex-correspondent for The Field, Barney White-Spunner; CA President Baroness Mallalieu, who has hunted on Exmoor for many years; prominent country sports photographer Charles Sainsbury-Plaice; and Horse & Hound hunting editor Catherine Austen.
And the winners are… There is no need to say much about the winning photographs: they speak for themselves. The cover of this issue is of the Axe Vale (facing page) and was taken by 17-year-old hunting enthusiast Lewis Gillingham, whose work stands up beautifully next to the other submissions of packs from across England and Wales. Lewis shares the award with Tracy Broadbent from North Wales, who is the mother of the toddler pictured cuddling a Wynnstay hound (right). Tracy tells us that the moment happened when the Wynnstay met at the Llangedwyn Estate, where her husband is keeper. We all enjoy sporting photography and so here are the winners and commended entries, larger than life and all taken under the Hunting Act. Our thanks go to everyone who took part in this competition. As we move into another season under the Act it is important to remain united, focused and proud to stand up for our sports.
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WINNER ‘Wynnstay’ B Y T R AC Y B R OA D B E N T
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FEATURE
HUNTING UNDER THE ACT
WINNER ‘Axe Vale’
BY LEWIS GILLINGHAM
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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FEATURE
HUNTING UNDER THE ACT COMMENDED ‘The Westerby Basset Hounds’ BY BOB SPREE
MEET THE JUDGES
Catherine Austen
COMMENDED ‘Banwen Miners’ BY SIMON REES
Baroness Mallalieu
Charles Sainsbury-Plaice
COMMENDED ‘The Albrighton B Y R AC H E L COBB
Barney White-Spunner
SEE MORE COUNTRYSIDE PHOTOGRAPHS To buy hunt-themed pictures and prints visit the Countryside Marketplace www.thecountrysideshop.com
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COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE | AUTUMN 2012
“AS WE MOVE INTO ANOTHER SEASON UNDER THE ACT IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMAIN UNITED, AND PROUD TO STAND UP FOR OUR SPORTS”
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FEATURE
Rural Oscars Fresh thinking: Tollerton Village Store was a finalist in the 2011 awards
Nominations, please!
T
J i l l G r i e v e urges rural businesses to take advantage of the boost the ‘Rural Oscars’ can bring, not only to the till but to the entire community. Don’t miss your chance to make a nomination
he eighth annual Countryside Alliance Awards, nicknamed the ‘Rural Oscars’, are now underway, having opened to public nomination in early September. The Awards are our annual celebration of rural communities, skills, heritage and entrepreneurial flair, and are a hit with the media, politicians and, most importantly, those who support their local businesses and want to see them rewarded. Across five categories they enable the general public to be vocal about their support for those who are working hard for rural life. The Awards have a great feel-good factor for everyone in the running and,
Jill Grieve is the Countryside Alliance’s Awards Director, Head of Communications and Editor of Countryside Alliance magazine
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in continuing tough economic times, they have consistently shone a spotlight on the hard-working rural businessmen and women who need all the publicity, praise and support we can give them. Countryside characters The Rural Oscars are different to other awards because they reward and recognise the characters involved in rural life and their own personal efforts. This isn’t about the best sausage or the smartest farm shop, it’s about people who think laterally and always have their community or produce at heart. People like Stuart at Ainsty Farm Shop near York, who is so popular locally that he was name-checked in the local primary school’s Christmas play. Or John and Lesley Berry who run the Cholmeley Arms in Lincolnshire and, realising that their isolated community was finding it hard to get local produce easily, opened a farm shop at their pub.
Prime meats: The awards recognise the work of local butchers
Of course, both enterprises support the highest possible animal welfare standards in British produce, but there is more to it than that. They adapt to what their communities need and are admired enormously for doing so. These stories are just two of many examples of both community and produce taking top billing; across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Rural Oscars are full of them. Defra Minister Richard Benyon MP has said of the Rural Oscars: “The winners of these awards have really made a difference to their local community, either through boosting local businesses, protecting the natural environment or supporting a thriving rural community. It’s a privilege to share their success with them.” New year, new categories In 2012 we have altered the categories to offer a platform to new rural businesses who are taking their first
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FEATURE
RURAL OSCARS
COUNTRYSIDE
ALLIANCE
AWARDS
Be part of a rural success story – nominate now! Nominations will be accepted until Monday 29 October 2012 Judging will then take place Regional English winners and national winners in Wales, Ireland and Scotland will be announced in early 2013 Overall winners will be named at a Parliamentary reception in 2013 Local Food Award Daily Telegraph Village Shop/Post Office Award
Enterprise Award, supported by Hunter Boots Start-up Award
Butcher Award I HAVE GREAT PLEASURE IN NOMINATING: Reason for nomination:
steps. We urge new businesses to get involved so we can help them to get established within their communities and build their customer base. This year’s categories are as follows, and you can cast as many nominations in as many categories as you choose. THE CATEGORIES Local Food Award Daily Telegraph Village Shop/ Post Office Award Enterprise Award, supported by Hunter Boots Butcher Award Start-up Award
You can nominate using the form to the right or, if you need more space, write a letter to us or nominate online at www.countrysideallianceawards.org.uk. We look forward to giving your local business a boost soon.
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
“THIS ISN’T ABOUT THE BEST SAUSAGE OR THE SMARTEST FARM SHOP, IT’S ABOUT PEOPLE WHO THINK LATERALLY AND ALWAYS HAVE THEIR COMMUNITY OR PRODUCE AT HEART”
Retailer address: Post code: Email:
Tel: Website:
PLEASE SEND COMPLETED FORMS TO: The Countryside Alliance Awards 2012, Countryside Alliance, The Old Town Hall, 367 Kennington Road, London SE11 4PT. Tel: 0207 840 9340
Your Details Name: Email: Data Protection Act 1998 – The Countryside Alliance is a registered data controller. We would like to contact you from time to time, letting you know about our work and promotions. If you do not wish to receive these We sometimes allow carefully communications, please tick this box screened organisations to contact our supporters. If you do not wish to receive these communications, please tick this box
The Countryside Alliance Awards are supported by:
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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FEATURE
GAME-TO-EAT MONTH
Go wild with British game
Wild flavours: Discover the rich taste of venison
ALEXI A ROBINSON
invites you to get your game on this November by cooking up a tasty alternative to pork, chicken or beef
G
AME-TO-EAT is one of the Countryside Alliance’s greatest success stories. A marketing campaign aimed solely at raising game’s profile, Game-to-Eat continues to spread the word about game meat’s health benefits, local credentials and, of course, to tempt more and more people to try it, cook with it and see it as an alternative to the traditional beef, pork or chicken. In promoting game we also boost our shooting industry, our butchers and our restaurants, and it is a happy fact that Game-to-Eat’s soaring profile has coincided with growing consumer awareness that cheap imported food is not sustainable and actively harms our food sector. So how to improve on an already strong brand? Well, we plan to tie the various strands of Game-to-Eat together to bring you a month-long celebration One-pot wonders: Try our spatchcock partridge recipe
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
of game, to be known as ‘Go Wild with British Game Month’. We have various ideas about what you can do, but Countryside Alliance members will surely be at the forefront of this initiative, helping us to further establish game as a national favourite. Celebrity chef supporters We are in contact with several thousand butchers and restaurants, and will be working with many of them during the month of November to help set up special promotional activities, so look out for game in your local pub or butcher. We will be distributing our everpopular recipe leaflets featuring the inspired ideas of chefs such as Phil Vickery, Valentine Warner and Mark Hix, which will hopefully help many people become culinary pioneers with game. And you, the membership, are very much a part of this celebration. Why not hold a game lunch or dinner party for friends, or organise one for your village to bring everyone together? Eating seasonally is by far the best way to ensure great taste, so
“WHY NOT HOLD A GAME LUNCH OR DINNER PARTY FOR YOUR FRIENDS, OR ORGANISE ONE FOR YOUR VILLAGE TO BRING EVERYONE TOGETHER?”
in November, when the game is really delicious, what better reason to get together to enjoy it? See page 41 for this month’s Recipe of the Quarter, ‘Grilled venison chops’. Clarissa Dickson Wright and ‘Wild Chef’ Ralph Skripek will be hosting Game Dinners throughout autumn. For details of dinners in your area, see ‘Events’ on page 47 or visit www. countryside-alliance.org/ca/events
ALEXIA ROBINSON is Game-to-Eat’s Campaign Director. For further information plus recipe ideas, visit www.gametoeat.co.uk
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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FEATURE
message from tim bonner
Hunting holds hard There can be no doubt that the Hunting Act has been a huge failure. Campaigns Director T i m B o n n e r takes stock of life under the Act and looks forward to a future in which we are surely getting closer to repeal
O
n Sunday 20 February 2005 I made an early morning trip to the newsagent and bought a copy of every paper. Spread across the kitchen table they made a fine show. Nearly every one had a hunting photograph on the front page, with most of them using an image of a red-coated huntsman holding aloft a dead fox. The news stories, comment pieces and editorials which many had assumed would record the end of hunting on the day the Hunting Act came into force actually reported that, as the Observer put it, “the Hunting Act had fallen at the first fence”. Like the broadcast news the day before, the stories were not of despair and defeat, but of determination, defiance and rejection of bad law. Of course, there was sadness that after the long, long parliamentary battle a ban on hunting had finally come into law. There was also, however, a feeling of great satisfaction that we had turned a moment which should have marked the high point of the campaign waged by bigoted MPs and animal rights groups into a huge step forward in the next battle; the battle for the survival of hunting.
The battle continues It is sometimes difficult to comprehend how little some of the politicians who wasted so much time and energy on the Hunting Act actually knew about hunts and the hunting community, but there is no better illustration of that ignorance
T IM B ONNER is Campaigns Director for the Countryside Alliance. He has been writing about hunting for more than a decade
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Going strong: Hunts continue unabated under the Act
than the fact that many expected hunts to fold. They honestly thought that hunting would simply disappear and that the hunting community, which was the real target of the legislation, would buy a football season ticket, take up croquet or engage in some other New Labourapproved activity. In fairness to the anti-hunting movement, which even by 2005 could show only a fraction of the support it had rallied in the 1980s and early 90s, they knew us better and had no expectation of an immediate end to hunting. They were, though, confident that within a few years hunts would be singing to their tune. As we now know, however, that first day’s hunting under the Act was not a one-off show of defiance. The new battle for hunting has carried on in the fields, woods and hills of England and Wales as hunts have tested the law, used its exemptions and found a way to survive. Meanwhile our opponents have divided. The MPs who forced the law through, once so vociferous, have now gone almost completely silent. Failure is not something any politician wants to be associated with and, from the start, the Hunting Act has had the smell of death about it. The anti-hunting movement, meanwhile, has turned its dwindling resources to enforcement in an attempt
United futures: Hunts are a cornerstone of rural communities
to impose its interpretation of the legislation and counter the increasingly strong argument that the Hunting Act simply does not work. They have had their moments, but in seven years they have been few and far between, whilst we have won all the big arguments and momentum has remained firmly with us. Most critical was the High Court Judgment which upheld Exmoor Foxhounds Huntsman Tony Wright’s acquittal from a Hunting Act conviction which confirmed almost exactly our interpretation of the law. Imagine how we would feel if the Countryside Alliance membership had dropped by 75% in the past 15 years, or 120 packs of foxhounds and 60 packs of beagles had closed in that period. That is exactly what has happened to the League Against Cruel Sports (LACS); membership has dropped from
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FEATURES
PHOTO COMPETITION
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Get informed and join the debate by downloading our ‘Case for Hunting’ and ‘Case for Repeal’ at www.countrysidealliance.org/ca/ campaigns-hunting
17,000 to 4,000. That drop is mirrored in the hunting field where only a rump of the once sizeable extremist saboteur movement remains. Of course, some hunts still face unpleasant and unjustifiable animal rights extremism and for them the problem has not gone away, but for most, including many for whom it seemed a permanent fixture, saboteur activity is a thing of the past. The only bright spot for the anti-hunting movement has been the political impasse
“In the end there can be only one winner. hunting did not fold in the face of prejudice, nor will it bow to the bullying of a tiny minority of extremists”
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caused by the formation of a coalition government in 2010 which has delayed the repeal of the Hunting Act. Although, as they themselves admit in private, there is little use in a law that does not work. To that end both LACS and the RSPCA are engaged in a last desperate attempt to make it work. A law that doesn’t work The RSPCA has launched a huge and blatantly political private prosecution against the Heythrop Hunt which just happens to operate in the Prime Minister’s constituency. LACS meanwhile, facing a financial black hole as a result of its waning support, has sold the family silver in the form of £2 million of land sales in the West Country. Rather than using that money to shore up its perilous finances, LACS has embarked on an ‘all in’ strategy by employing a small army of
investigators, mostly ex-police officers, to ‘enforce’ the Hunting Act. Throwing resources at the Hunting Act is as pointless as trying to bail out the Titanic, but that will not stop LACS trying whilst its funds last. That means more hunt staff and masters facing vindictive allegations, more police time wasted and, possibly more days in court. Hunts must and will react to this new threat and the Countryside Alliance is working with them to do just that by gathering intelligence, briefing and providing practical support to every hunt in the country. In the end, however, there can be only one winner. Hunting did not fold in the face of the prejudice of MPs, nor will it bow to the bullying of a tiny minority of extremists. However the politics of repeal or replacement of the Hunting Act proceed, hunting will continue in far better shape than those who try to end it.
autumn 2012 | COUNTRYside alliance
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FEATURE
rural heroes
Gamekeepers:
Guardians of the countryside
Prize keeper: Stuart Riddell is a Countryside Alliance ‘Rural Hero’
Working long hours and committed to their cause, gamekeepers are the unsung heroes of the British countryside. Charles Nodder
celebrates their contribution
E
ight o’clock sharp and the phone rings. It’s a fairly early start to my day in the office but the gamekeeper calling in has been up since 5am feeding his pheasants. That’s normal for him at this time of year, although he mentions in passing that he was also out lamping the previous evening till “a bit past midnight”. As Political Adviser to the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation I try not to think about where the Working Time Directive fits in with these guys.
‘Time with a keeper is never wasted’ Sometimes, when a keeper calls me to check a point of law, or perhaps to report a biased anti-shooting piece on local radio, he will break off the conversation because a fox has suddenly appeared, requiring his urgent attention. At other times, on the NGO stand at a game fair, for example, the keepers will relax from their day job for just a few hours and then the most wonderful tales and precious advice flow forth, invariably leavened with great humour and goodwill. One of the consequences of there being more let shooting these days is that for many Guns the keeper is just someone they thank briefly after the last drive, having little idea what
“Of all workers left in the countryside, keepers are probably the closest to the natural world and few talk about it with greater knowledge”
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Charles Nodder is Political Adviser to the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation. For more information go to www. nationalgamekeepers.org.uk
autumn 2012 | COUNTRYside alliance
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FEATURE
rural heroes
Great guns: There are 6,000 keepers in Britain today
sort of life he leads or the work that has gone into producing the sport. The closer relationship that used to be common between Guns and keepers is a sad loss because, of all workers left in the countryside, the keepers are probably the closest to the natural world and few talk about it with greater knowledge. Time spent with a keeper is never wasted and an understanding of how birds are released, how they are cunningly fed over many weeks to get them into the right coverts and how they are blanked in and driven on a shoot day, adds immeasurably to the interest of the shooting itself. The 6,000 or so gamekeepers in Britain today are fewer in number than a century ago but their professionalism can never have been greater. Young keepers invariably have a qualification from college, or have undertaken a modern apprenticeship of some kind. They must be experts not only in wildlife and its management but also understand best practice in game rearing, game crop husbandry, health and safety legislation, the regulations on pesticides, the ways in which gamekeeping interacts with agrienvironmental schemes and much more.
“Gamekeeping demands a broad set of skills. No wonder it attracts some remarkable men and women”
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Proud to be part of a united shooting industry
On top of that, they need to be capable of coordinating sizeable teams of shoot helpers, liaising with farming and forestry interests, being personable when it comes to meeting Guns and perhaps even involved with selling the shooting. It’s a broad and varied set of skills. No wonder it attracts some remarkable men and women. Improving Britain’s habitats An NGO survey last year found that gamekeepers look after an area many times that of all national nature reserves put together. They play host to numerous iconic species of wildlife, including five or more species of birds of prey present on over half of all the shoots surveyed. Waders and other important wildlife have been found to be doing far better where gamekeepers are at work, than on comparable ground where no predator control takes place. Fifteen years on from its foundation, the NGO – with great help from the Countryside Alliance – has done much to publicise such facts and to re-establish the reputation of gamekeeping in the public eye. There have been some excellent positive stories about the profession told in the media. Yet, irritatingly and entirely at odds with the facts, gamekeeping continues to be demonised by a small number of organisations that profess to support conservation. These bodies should instead join us in celebrating the overwhelmingly positive contribution that gamekeepers make to the wellbeing of Britain’s habitats and wildlife.
David Taylor, the Countryside Alliance’s Shooting Campaign Manager, writes: Many view the shooting industry as fragmented, especially when it comes to defending our sport. In reality nothing could be further from the truth. This issue of Countryside Alliance magazine has two excellent articles from other organisations in the shooting world. On these pages Charles Nodder, of the NGO, writes about some of the issues gamekeepers face. The NGO takes great pride in representing the interests of gamekeepers nationwide. They also promote best practice to ensure that all gamekeepers maintain a high level of professionalism. On page 16, Andrew Hoodless, of the GWCT, writes about the contribution of game management to conservation. For shooting people, the work of the GWCT needs no introduction. Research from the Trust not only shows how sustainable shooting is good for conservation, but how we can improve habitats for all wildlife in the way we shoot and farm. We are working closely with these, and other, organisations to ensure threats to shooting are firmly dealt with. Cooperation is key, especially when working with complex issues which require delicate handling. In recent years we have been working ever closer with the NGO on many shooting issues. Further, our financial contribution to the GWCT helps to fund recent woodcock migration research. We are honoured that Charles and Andrew have taken the time to write for us, and hope you enjoy reading their contributions.
Generation game: Keepers are experts in rearing chicks
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FEATURE
Fishing
From left: Countryside Alliance Chairman Kate Hoey MP; gold medallist Freddie Lee Turner; MP Helen Grant
Fishing 4 Schools: A gold medal project In June this year, the Fishing 4 Schools project reached its climax when young anglers received their medals in a special presentation at Westminster. c h a r l e s j a r d i n e explains how the campaign has boosted the skills, morale and sense of achievement of participants
T
his was it: that defining point when the project, well, soared. Six or so years ago our ex-Campaigns Director Rob Gray and I started a little adventure. The mission was simple: take fishing into schools, grow the sport and help foster a better understanding of the countryside and where we, as humans, fit into
C h a r l e s Ja r di n e is Director of the Countryside Alliance’s Fishing 4 Schools campaign, a short-course angling programme
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it. Importantly, the concept slotted in as an aid to formal learning, making it doubly worthwhile. Out of this, Fishing 4 Schools was born – a short-course angling programme to get youngsters out of the classroom and enthused about our countryside. Practical outdoor education is what the Countryside Alliance stands for: we work with the Angling Trust on the national Angling Participation Programme and Fishing 4 Schools is a true cornerstone, doing wonders and inspiring participation wherever it goes. We knew we could bring about a greater appreciation of rural life by simply going into state and special schools and working with those with
learning difficulties, behaviour problems and young people struggling with autism and other learning barriers… actually anyone who needed a reaffirmation of learning through creative means. The results have been extraordinary. Welcome to Westminster So, fast forward a few years to June 2012 and there we were at Westminster; our fledgling programme had not just succeeded, it had soared, and we were delighted to take it to Parliament to shout about it. To draw the youngsters together into a national scheme in which they had all excelled seemed a perfect way to boost their sense of achievement yet further. A champion was chosen from each participating school and each one of them came to Westminster, thrilled by their accomplishment and keen to learn if they would be the overall gold, silver or bronze medallist of the scheme.
“A champion was chosen from each school and they came to Westminster, thrilled by their accomplishment”
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FEATURE
FISHING
From left: Countryside Alliance Executive Chairman Barney WhiteSpunner; silver medallist Michael Taylor; MP Mary Creagh
“EVERY SINGLE PARTICIPANT HAD BROUGHT SOMETHING SPECIAL TO FISHING 4 SCHOOLS. HOW COULD YOU POSSIBLY HAVE ONE WINNER?”
Young and old eyes opened wide, drinking in yet another moment in our great history: that atmosphere that is indefinably Westminster. The Fishing 4 Schools Champions Awards were announced by Charles Walker MP, himself a passionate angler and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Angling, so a strong ally for the scheme and our Champions. The room throbbed with life: MPs of all political persuasions, Lords, Ladies, angling instructors and, importantly, the young people, their teachers and parents, mingled, chatted and shared the single passion that is fishing. The room was called to order and fell silent. Every single participant had brought something
FURTHER INFORMATION: For more on the Fishing 4 Schools campaign, go to www.countryside-alliance.org/ca/campaigns-fishing
undefinable and special to Fishing 4 Schools. How could you possibly have one single winner? Going for gold After an energetically excellent speech by Charles Walker (who made it clear to the youngsters that angling is without doubt the best sport they will ever enjoy!) the overall Champions were announced. Freddie Lee Jones from Bower Grove in Maidstone was voted our gold medallist by the team of judges: angling guru Keith Arthur; Trout Fisherman editor Russell Hill; the Alliance’s Executive Chairman Sir Barney White-Spunner (oh, and me!). The reason we chose Freddie? He had embraced fishing and used it to propel himself from difficulty that few of us could even comprehend. The problem was all candidates had done that same thing to some degree. Freddie, it was unanimously agreed, had taken his efforts to even greater heights, and his local MP Helen Grant
From left: Morriston teacher Andy Banbury, Charles Jardine, bronze medallist Alex Richards, Morriston teacher Mark Hooper and Rhys Llewelyn of sponsors Environment Agency Wales
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was delighted to be on hand to present him with his medal. In silver medal position was Michael Taylor of the Cathedral School in Wakefield, who, on his first ever trip to London, found himself a medallist being congratulated by his MP too. Mary Creagh, who is Shadow Defra Secretary, was in full support and in no doubt of angling’s benefits. In bronze medal position, cheered on by his proud parents, was Alex Richards of Morriston Comprehensive School in Cardiff. Three exceptional young men in a company of other exceptional young people. It was a true celebration. A lifeline to learning We now serve nearly 40 schools with no sign of any let up: the need for what we do, and how we mesh with schools, seems to be a vital lifeline to better learning and understanding. Especially as our work is increasingly finding itself in backdrops as diverse as Swansea, Sheffield, Moss Side, Tewkesbury, Maidstone; hard-edged cities, towns as well as rural idylls have a need – irrespective. In developing the programme we are going to be incorporating cooking what we catch and feeding the school – another strand to the project and a surefire way to boost morale, skills and a sense of achievement. We work to serve and help where we can. This is an ever-evolving entity that smashes down barriers, and goes to places and embraces topics that seldom, if ever, have been embraced before. Uncharted territory. And it’s working.
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FEATURE
IN PRAISE OF...
In praise of...
Red alert: The grouse is a bird that deserves respect
The red grouse
Shooting has helped keep this wily and resilient game bird off the list of endangered species. A dr i a n Bl ack mor e
salutes the iconic red grouse
W
hen MatThew Gloag created his first whisky in 1896, he named it after a bird that he regarded as an icon. The popularity of that whisky, together with its quality, led him to add the word ‘Famous’ nine years later in 1905, and so was born The Famous Grouse. What a fitting tribute to a remarkable bird; a bird that to this day continues to have such a significant impact in so many different ways. Small with attitude – and punchy enough to withstand all that is thrown at them – grouse are real characters. They are a truly wild game bird and, unlike pheasant and partridge, their population isn’t maintained or increased by the release of birds that have been hatched or reared in captivity. Remarkably, they will also have a second brood if their whole first brood is lost owing to adverse weather or predation. Unlike other ground-nesting birds that share its habitat to breed and then disappear to warmer climes for the winter months, this bird is unique to the UK and seldom leaves the heather moorland on which it is fledged. That is, unless long-lying deep snow prevents them from finding food, as was the case a couple of years ago. Then, they were left with no choice but to venture to lower ground to look for alternative forms of food, having no idea what they might find, but clearly sensing that it was something that they had to do. And thankfully the majority
“Few would deny that the red grouse is the most challenging and unpredictable game bird, flying fast and low while hugging the contours”
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did survive and returned to the moors when they were able. A most formidable bird Regardless of whether one’s preference is for walked up or driven shooting, grouse never fail to thrill. Few would deny that it is the most challenging and unpredictable game bird, flying fast and low while hugging the contours. This bird is no fool and, when driven and as the season goes on, it comes up with new ideas as to how it might thwart the efforts of the beaters and flankers whose task it is to try to get the birds to fly over a line of expectant guns in their butts; butts that can eventually become redundant, with guns having to move into unmarked gullies in an effort to catch the grouse out. So begins a mutual challenge; and one that grouse often win! The red grouse is a bird that deserves respect. Paradoxically, it is because of shooting that it is not on the endangered species list, as shooting provides the ‘economic engine’ to pay for the essential year-round management that is carried out by gamekeepers; management without
which grouse and its habitat would be lost. But with all the factors that can affect its breeding success, there can be some years when there is no sustainable surplus to allow shooting to take place, and that is when the livelihoods of our remote local communities in the uplands are hit hard. Grouse shooting brings people together, whether as a beater, flanker, loader, picker up or driver. Feeling that community spirit on a shoot day is a marvellous experience. It’s not just about the thrill of the shoot; it’s so much wider than that, and to be part of it is special indeed. The Countryside Alliance’s free Game Shooting Seminar takes place on Friday 26 October in Wetherby. For more information email Simon Hamlyn, simon-hamlyn@countryside-alliance.org, or call 07818 553635
Adrian Blackmore is the Countryside Alliance’s Moorlands Director. He will be speaking at our Game Shooting Seminar (see above)
autumn 2012 | COUNTRYside alliance
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FEATURE
HUNTING NEWCOMERS’ WEEK
A wider welcome
Spread the word: Tap into youthful enthusiasm, on horseback or by visiting local schools
The revamped Hunting Newcomers’ Week aims to promote our achievements and introduce hunting to the wider community. J E N N Y D U N N reports
T
“WE NOW NEED TO BE VOCAL ABOUT EVERYTHING FROM CONSERVATION WORK TO CHARITABLE GIVING, TO REACH OUT TO A NEW AUDIENCE”
have come into contact with their local hunts, and would not have known or fully understood the range of activities they undertake. For example, hunts could invite a local school class to kennels to explain how they operate, to meet the hounds and understand hound work. They could also run a hound adoption scheme with their local school, or organise a photocall for the local paper as they hand over a cheque to their local Air Ambulance or hospice. Let’s get vocal Many hunts have been doing great work for years, but in their modest way they keep it to themselves. Now we need to be vocal about everything from conservation work to charitable giving, to reach out to a new audience and talk about hunting’s benefits, its role in wildlife management, its place in our history and in the countryside’s future. The Countryside Alliance is providing hunts with the tools to promote the good work that they are already doing and helping those hunts who want to be more pro-active to get involved in these kinds of activities. Hunt Action Packs have been sent to hunts, which outline the ways in which they can promote hunting during Hunting Newcomers’ Week and throughout the hunting season. We are grateful to the Beaufort for lending us their press cuttings scrapbook, showing all the positive coverage they have achieved
NEWCOMERS’ WEEK WILL RUN FROM 6-13 OCTOBER To find out more, go to www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
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COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE | AUTUMN 2012
and enabling us to share their ideas nationally with other hunts. The Countryside Alliance will also be promoting Newcomers’ Week in the national media so that we can continue to challenge the typical, hackneyed stereotypes of hunting and promote it as inclusive, friendly and committed to the community and conservation. Welcoming newcomers to hunting, as well as promoting hunting activities to local communities, is vital to the sustainability of hunting and also key to achieving our goal of repealing the Hunting Act. Hunting has always been an inclusive pastime and Newcomers’ Week offers a snapshot of the great work hunts do in their local communities, as well as reminding people that hunting is a fantastic way of enjoying the best of Britain’s countryside with like-minded people.
JENNY DUNN is Policy Researcher for the Countryside Alliance with a portfolio that ranges across dozens of rural topics
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
Main image: Sue Bird; bottom left: www.katythompsonphotography.co.uk
HIS AUTUMN WILL SEE the revival of Newcomers’ Week, a national initiative that we last ran in 2010. Now renamed Hunting Newcomers’ Week, we are urging hunts to get involved in one or more promotional activities during the second week of October. The initiative retains the aim of getting those who have never hunted or followed a hunt to participate and experience the fun of hunting. But this year we are also encouraging hunts to open their doors to an audience beyond meets so that a wider public can get to know what hunting and the hunting community is all about. Hunts up and down the country are doing fantastic work in promoting hunting to their wider communities. Charity fundraising, kennel open days, and school and pony club visits are a few ways in which hunts are engaging with people who otherwise might not
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Recipe of the quarter
VALENTINE WARNER is a chef, best-selling cookery author and presenter of BBC’s What to Eat Now
{ VA L E N T I N E WA R N E R }
Grilled venison chops with creamed spinach and straw potatoes This Game-to-Eat recipe from chef Valentine Warner will be a hit whatever the weather and is the perfect way to celebrate ‘Go Wild with Game’ month this November (SEE PAGE 25) YOU WILL NEED… For the venison • 4 venison chops or rack • 1/2 tsp flaked sea salt • 1 tbsp fennel seeds • 2 tbsp olive oil For the creamed spinach • 1 bag of baby spinach • 1 tbsp olive oil, plus 2 tbsp later • 2 heaped tbsp full-fat crème fraîche • A good scratch of nutmeg • 1 small clove of excellent garlic (must not be sprouted) • Salt and pepper For the straw potatoes • 400g peeled large potatoes • Sunflower oil • Salt PREPARATION METHOD • Wash the spinach thoroughly and drain it in a colander. Get a pan large enough to take all the spinach and get it on a high heat. Add 1 tbsp oil and when it is hot, not smoking, chuck in all the spinach. Spit, crackle, sizzle it will go. • Stir away, turning the leaves until all are totally collapsed. Remove from the heat. • Press the spinach against the side of the pan with a wooden spoon and tip away all the excess water. Stir the spinach and repeat the process, getting rid of as much water as you can. Put the spinach in a blender. • On top of the spinach, flop in one heaped tablespoon of crème fraiche, nutmeg, the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper. Blitz everything up together until the purée is totally smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste. • Heat up the creamed spinach just before you need it, as if kept on a long slow heat it will lose its fabulous colour. • Peel and very thinly slice the potatoes. Stack the slices and slice them lengthways into matchstick thickness. • Preheat the grill to high, and heat 2 inches of oil in a medium pan to 180˚c.
FOR MORE DELICIOUS GAME RECIPES VISIT WWW.GAMETOEAT.CO.UK
SHARE YOUR RECIPES WITH US Do you have a recipe you would like to share with our readers? Please send, with photo, to news@countryside-alliance.org
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• Season the venison chops with salt and the fennel seeds and rub them all over with oil. Place them close to the grill, turning once until cooked to your preference. Ideally they should be pinky rare, so about four minutes each side. Or seal the rack in a pan and cook in a hot oven for 12 minutes. • Drop the potato slithers in the oil and deep fry until golden. Stir them occasionally to help them colour evenly. Remove to kitchen roll to drain and salt generously. Serve the venison chops with the warmed spinach and tangled chips.
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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Young Countryside Alliance Furry friends: Ferrets make extremely rewarding pets
SAR AH TAYLOR is an experienced countryside writer who is keen to introduce youngsters to field sports and the rural way of life
{ AC T I V I T I E S }
An introduction to… ferreting Welcome to a new series introducing younger enthusiasts to the activities the countryside has to offer, says SARAH TAYLOR n the new ‘Introduction to…’ series I will be looking at country sports that young people may be keen to get involved in. For the first instalment, I have spoken to expert ferreter Tim Hesketh to ask his advice on how youngsters can get involved in the ancient sport of ferreting. Ferreting has been used throughout history to hunt and control rabbits. It is still one of the most effective methods and is used throughout the UK to control the rabbit population in the countryside. Tim got started in ferreting aged 13, after seeing pictures of the sport in the Shooting Times. Luckily, his uncle knew about ferreting and was on hand to give advice. Finding out about ferreting first-hand is still the best way to gain knowledge, says Tim, and it is very important that people learn about ferrets before they rush out and buy one. They’re extremely rewarding pets, but do require a great deal of care. There is a wealth of information on the internet, as well as a number of good books on the subject – Tim particularly recommends Simon Whitehead’s books.
I
READ THIS! Simon Whitehead’s book Ferreting: An Essential Guide contains lots of useful advice and tips to get started.
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On a practical level, young people must make sure they have public liability insurance, but Tim says they do not need to rush out and buy lots of expensive equipment straight away. This is no guarantee of overnight success, he warns. Finding the right ferret Once you have done some research and decided that ferreting is the sport for you, try to find a ferret from a local breeder. The best way to do this is to look in the local paper and shops. Local shows are also good places to meet like-minded people and talk to breeders. When visiting a breeder, make sure the cages are clean and that the ferrets look happy. Ideally, you should be able to see both your chosen ferret’s parents when visiting. The ferrets should be eight to 10 weeks old by the time you take them home. Owners will need a lot of patience when training a young ferret – known as kits – as with training any new animal. Tim believes that putting a collar on a ferret is worthwhile in the long run. Ferrets should be at least five months old before you start to take them out. Remember, you must make sure you go ferreting with someone knowledgeable, and never force inexperienced ferrets to go down rabbit holes. Take these tips and you’re well on the way to discovering an exciting and rewarding new hobby – good luck!
Dos and don’ts for first-time ferreters DO • Make sure you’re on time • Take a parent or guardian • Get public liability insurance by becoming an Alliance under-25 member (see our website) • Be prepared to get dirty!
DON’T • Forget warm, waterproof clothes • Buy lots of expensive equipment for your first try • Force an inexperienced ferret to go down a rabbit hole
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE US TO COVER IN THE NEXT ISSUE? Let Sarah know at news@countryside-alliance.org
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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We always welcome your feedback and would like to feature your letters and emails in future issues of Countryside Alliance magazine. Please send your emails to news@countryside-alliance.org.uk and your letters to The Editor, Countryside Alliance Magazine, 367 Kennington Road, London SE11 4PT
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Expert seasonal tips Our countryside insiders have some valuable advice for hunting, shooting and fishing this autumn COUNTRYSIDE TWEETS Follow us on Twitter @CAupdates Marina Yannakoudakis @MarinaMEP – Meeting with @caupdates to discuss @EU_ECHA’s proposals for lead in ammunition.
HUNTING By Tim Easby
SHOOTING
FISHING
OF THE HUNTING OFFICE
SHOOTING CAMPAIGN MANAGER
By David Taylor,
By Charles Jardine,
• I hope by now you have enjoyed a few early mornings – if you haven’t, you must. Autumn is a great time of year to go hunting and to watch hounds. (You will be rewarded with a well-earned breakfast afterwards!) It is an excellent time not only to educate the new entry, but young horses too. • “Hunt every day you can before the new year when the cold weather generally comes,” my father used to say. He was quite right and although last season was dry, many days were lost to the weather in the two seasons prior to it. • Remember that, more often than not, good days are had from Meets where expectations are low. • Once your horses are fitter it can be great fun to visit neighbouring packs and even those a little further away. Why not get a team together? It will be an experience and there will always be a few tales to take home. • As I have said before, a ‘thank you’ from a smiley face goes a long way and costs nothing. A thanked farmer will be happy to see the hunt again. It is everyone’s responsibility to keep the support for our sport, not just the Masters and Hunt staff.
• Buy your cartridges – lead isn’t getting any cheaper but there are sometimes significant discounts for buying in bulk. Shop around and stock up before the season to save a few pounds. • Check your attire – is it suitable for another season? Holes and tears in waterproof layers could turn a wet day into a miserable one. Last year my breeks mysteriously shrank around the waist, making the first day of the season quite uncomfortable, to say the least. Don’t find out on the morning of the shoot. • Train your dog – no doubt the faithful gundog at your side has had the summer off, quite rightly, as he deserved it. Get him back into the swing of the season with some basic obedience and some dummies before the season starts. • Shoot Cancellation Insurance – the weather has forced cancellation of many shows this year. If you have a big day planned, don’t be disappointed – get insured. Visit www.countryside-alliance.org/ ca/article/shoot-cancellationinsurance • Buy your Shooting Badge (see page 6) – show your support for the Shooting Campaign by buying this year’s badge from www.countryside-alliance.org. uk and don’t be seen in the shooting field without one!
• Summer weather and water will have propelled both salmon and sea trout to the upper reaches of many rivers. This might be the year that late fishing on (cheaper) upper stretches is sublime. The caveat? It’s fishing and anything might happen. • If you are fishing a river with recent floodwaters, try to fish just as the ‘colour’ is dropping out. Fish a falling, not a rising river. • Fish the edges too, don’t think fish – be they salmon, trout, sea trout, grayling, chub, minnows… anything – will be on the far side. Invariably the nooks, crannies and creases almost under your feet can be exceptionally productive, if fished slowly and studiously. • Think about fishing the Caribbean, Seychelles, Central America for exotics… or the Hebrides; book that sundrenched winter break now for the better deals. • If not… get your grayling tackle in order and search for prime river bookings through Famous Fishing, Angling/Fishing Auctions like the Wild Trout Trust raffle. Or join a club like Salisbury and district (a year’s fishing for the price of half a day on the Test!) or join one of the various rivers trust passport schemes.
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
ANGLING GURU
Countryside Alliance @CAupdates – Lead shot e-lobby feedback from Julie Girling: As your MEP, I will continue to support our rural heritage and way of life. #leadingonlead Countryside Alliance @CAupdates – Loved the closing ceremony of the Olympics but appalling to see Brian May making a political statement with his fox & badger badges #shame Countryside Alliance @CAupdates – Gold in shooting, silver in huntingrelated eventing. Bring fishing into the Olympics and we’d clean up #olympicfieldsports Charles Jardine @CharlesJardine – Just about to greet the day and a lovely time ahead with the awesome young folk and teachers at Morriston Comp in Swansea. Garnffrwd Jimmy Doherty @jimmysfarm – I love my rare breeds but I would never have thought the dairy farmer would become one! Things have got to change #SOSdairy
AUTUMN 2012 | COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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Regional Events, Autumn 2012 M o r e E V E N T S Our website carries a fuller events listing: www.countryside-alliance.org/ca/events
{ A U T U M N 2 012 }
Round-up of the countryside events you need to know about Wales Director, Rachel Evans – rachelevans@countryside-alliance.org 01550 777997/07825 337978
n 14 October – Countryside Day at Ffos Las racecourse. Entry, racecard, and a threecourse meal in the Countryside Alliance marquee, at the edge of the paddock. £55 per person. Please book early with Rachel, especially if you want tables of more than eight. n 23 October – The Barry Henderson Big Quiz at Gwaenynog, Denbigh 7.30pm start. Teams of four are invited. Please contact Barry on 01824 704047. n 7 November – Repeal Meal and Racing Deal at Chepstow race course. Details from Rachel. Limited tickets, book early.
North Regional Director, Simon Hamlyn – simon-hamlyn@ countryside-alliance.org 01978 780144/07818 553635 n 9 October – Barney WhiteSpunner – Holiday Inn, A1, Darlington, County Durham. Hear first-hand from the Executive Chairman of the Countryside Alliance, starting at 7.30pm, including a free drink and canapés. Auction of promises and a raffle in aid of the Zetland Hunt and the Countryside Alliance. Tickets are £15 per person. Call Helen Orton on 07763 118896 for tickets. n 20 October – Barney WhiteSpunner - Northumberland Hall,
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Market Square, Alnwick. Hear from the Executive Chairman of the Countryside Alliance, starting at 7pm, in aid of the Percy Hunt and the Countryside Alliance. Tickets cost £10 per person. Followed by dinner at Blackmore’s restaurant for £25 per head. To book contact Julia Bucknall on 01668 283057 or email jarbucknall@ btinternet.com n 20 October – Game dinner with Clarissa Dickson Wright and Individual Inns - Elslack, near Skipton Yorkshire. A delightful evening with the broadcaster, author and cook, and a wonderful opportunity to learn about the countryside and the work of the Countryside Alliance. Hear Clarissa’s anecdotes, and enjoy a delicious game dinner. To book call the Tempest Arms, on 01282 842450. Ticket price to be confirmed. n 24 October – A Game dinner with ‘Wild Chef’ Ralph Skripek – Sawley, near Clitheroe, Lancashire. A new initiative created by the Countryside Alliance in association with Individual Inns. To book please call the Spread Eagle, on 01200 441202. Ticket price to be confirmed. n 26 October – Game shooting seminar – Bridge Hotel, Walshford, Wetherby, Yorkshire 11am-3pm. The focus will be on moorlands and moorland management with David Taylor, the Countryside Alliance’s Shoot Campaign Manager; the Countryside Alliance’s firearms adviser, Graham Downing; the Countryside Alliance’s Moorlands Director, Adrian Blackmore; and the NGO’s Alan Edwards. Free to attend. To book email Simon. n 31 October – A Game Dinner with ‘Wild Chef’ Ralph Skripek – Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, Yorkshire. To book please call the Wheatley Arms, on 01943 816496. Ticket price to be confirmed. n 24 November – Game dinner with Clarissa Dickson Wright and Cheshire Forest
Jeremy Houghton’s exhibition in aid of the Countryside Alliance Jeremy Houghton – the official BT-sponsored Olympic Artist and artist in residence of the Prince of Wales this year – is staging a roadshow exhibition of his work. Jeremy documented the athletes’ journey to the 2012 London Olympics and his work is coming to the following locations this autumn (contact the local Director for information and to book): n Saturday 29 September at Fakenham Racecourse. n 5 and 6 October – by kind invitation of Mrs Rupert Higgin, at Physonhayes, Woore, Cheshire, CW3 9SP. Drinks reception from 6.30pm–9.30pm on 5 October and an open viewing on the morning of 6 October. n 11 and 12 October – by kind invitation of Mrs Anne Marie Trevelyan, at Netherwitton Hall,
hunt – Cheshire. Venue to be confirmed. The guest speaker will be Clarissa and ‘Wild Chef’ Ralph Skripek will be on hand. Tickets will be about £50 and proceeds will be split equally with the Hunt and the Countryside Alliance. To book please call Sally Aspin
Netherwitton, Morpeth, Northumberland. Drinks reception from 6.30pm9.30pm and an open viewing on the morning of the 12 October. n 13 October, 7.30-9.30pm and 14 October, 10am-12 noon at Trull House, Tetbury by kind permission Mr & Mrs M Mitchell. Both exhibitions are by invitation only. n 19 October – The exhibition will then move to Thenford Barn, Thenford, Northamptonshire, by kind permission of Lord & Lady Heseltine and will be held from 6.30-9.30pm. n 2 November, 7pm – Fonmon Castle, Vale of Glamorgan. n A North Wales date and venue to be confirmed. n 15 and 16 November – by kind invitation of Individual Inns, at the Wheatley Arms, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, West Yorkshire. Drinks reception from 5.30pm-7.30pm on 16 November and an open viewing on the morning of the 16 November.
on 01565 722272 and send payment to her at Wheatfield Cottage, Free Green Lane, Over Peover, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 9QX n 28 November – Race for Repeal – Wetherby racecourse, North Yorkshire. The second Northern Race for Repeal
autumn 2012 | COUNTRYside alliance
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Regional Events, Autumn 2012 Spunner – Derbyshire. Enjoy an aperitif, a four-course dinner and a sporting auction at Hassop Hall, Hassop, near Bakewell, Derbyshire. 7.15pm reception, dinner at 8pm. Dress: black tie. £45. Call the Countryside Alliance Derbyshire Coordinator, Valerie Ferrol, on 01246 590153 or email vef2@ btinternet.com
Midlands
Nationwide this November The Countryside Alliance’s Game-to-Eat campaign is running a month-long “Go Wild with British Game” month throughout November (see also page 25). Check www. gametoeat.co.uk for recipe inspiration, look out for promotional events at your local butcher, pub or restaurant, or hold a game lunch or supper for friends or your entire village to celebrate game and support our shooting and food industries.
gives jockeys from local hunts an opportunity to ride this world-famous racecourse in front of friends, family and hunt supporters, all in support of the Countryside Alliance. The Race for Repeal, over a mile, starts at 11.30am, followed by lunch in a private facility within the Paddock Enclosure. The £45 price includes admission badge, race card and car pass. Live and silent auctions and a full seven race card. Sponsor a jockey, at www.countrysidealliance.org.uk n 7 December – ‘Christmas with Clarissa’ – Cheshire. By kind permission of Mrs Rupert Higgin at Physonhayes, Woore CW3 9SP. Festive fun, including a candle-lit drinks and canapés reception, Christmas carols, a talk by Clarissa Dickson Wright and a silent auction. 7-9.30pm. Tickets £15. To book call Jilly Higgin on 01270 520577. n 16 January 2013 – A Sporting Dinner with Barney White-
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Regional Director, Sara Rutherford – sara-rutherford@ countryside-alliance.org 01380 831068/07974 141933 n 25 November – Christmas Fair – Burford School, Cheltenham Rd, Burford OX18 4PL, 10am-4pm. Over 30 fabulous and unusual stallholders with gifts for the whole family. Christmas shopping made easy under one roof! Lots of parking. Entry £3; children under 16 go free. n October 16-17 – National Sporting Auction. The Kidson Trigg Auction Rooms, Highworth SN6 7PZ. Viewings – Sunday 14 October, 10-12 noon; Monday 15, 10.30am-5pm. Viewing on sale day from 8.30am. Online bidding and live auction facility: www. kidsontrigg.co.uk n 9 February 2013 – Thrusters Ball Hatherley Manor, Cheltenham. Black tie, threecourse game dinner, bar, entertainment plus terrier racing. Dancing until 2am; tickets £38. Tables of 10 or 12 available (smaller can be arranged). Contact Sara Rutherford.
East Regional Director William Burton – william-burton@ countryside-alliance.org 07738 959900 n 29 September – Wild Food Evening. The Cambridgeshire
COUNTRYside alliance | autumn 2012
Committee are organising a wild food evening from 7.30pm (venue to be confirmed). For information, please contact Claire Wright on 07843 628834. n 6-7 October – Robin Hood Show. Suffolk Showground, Ipswich. We will have a stand. To book tickets and find out more, please visit: www. robinhoodcountryshow.co.uk/ Suffolk_show_info.htm
South East Regional Director, Michelle Nudds – michelle-nudds@ countryside-alliance.org 01903 884179/07738 958894 n 23 September – Countryside Alliance Liberty & Livelihood Charity Race, Plumpton. Join us at Plumpton Racecourse for a day at the races and support our 10 years on event, The Liberty and Livelihood Charity Race. A great card of afternoon racing followed by the charity race. For details contact countryside-raceday@ countryside-alliance.org or call 01903 884179. n 23 September – Surrey Country Fair & Ploughing Match. This show takes place at Loseley Park, between Godalming and Guildford. Rural demonstrations, ploughing, horse logging, fly fishing, clay shoot, terrier racing and much more. For further information go to www.surreycountyshow. co.uk or call 01483 890180. n 6-7 October – Autumn Show & Game Fair. To be held at the South of England Show Ground, Ardingly. The two-day event will include all the traditional attractions of a Game Fair, with arena displays of falconry, gundogs and terrier racing, plus a full competition clay line. For further information please contact www.seas.org.uk or 01444 892700. n 15 November – Symposium on Wildlife Diseases and
Conservation, London – from the Veterinary Association of Wildlife Management. A one-day symposium on Wildlife Diseases and Conservation, at The Royal Society of Medicine, 1 Wimpole Street, London W1G 0AE. Topics will include the ‘Big Society’ and conservation; ‘One health’ – integrating human, domestic animal and wildlife health; and ‘Life in the Wild’ – contrasting the life of wild and domestic animals. Distinguished speakers have already been secured for this influential and important meeting on wildlife diseases and conservation. Full programme and details will be published at: www.vet-wildlifemanagement. org.uk
South West Regional Director Alison Hawes – alison-hawes@ countryside-alliance.org 01752 830430/07710 836806 n 5 October – The Famous Thrusters Ball comes to the West Country at the Webbington Hotel Loxton, Axbridge BS26 2HU. Black tie, three-course dinner, disco and entertainments, including an indoor laser shooting competition, indoor terrier racing and Bucking Bronco. Tickets £35, tables of 10 or 12, smaller parties to share. Hotel Rooms available at a discount, £70 B&B for a standard double or £60 B&B for a single room. All rates include full use of leisure and spa facilities. For details call 01752 830430 or email alison-hawes@countrysidealliance.org. Entry with ticket only. Strictly 18 years and over. n 24 February 2013 – Wessex Countryside Alliance Point to Point at Badbury Rings. First race at 12 noon. Includes kids zone, shopping village, terrier racing, parade of hounds etc. Fun day out plus excellent point to point racing. Further details from Alison Hawes.
Cheltenham Countryside Race Day n Friday 16 November – Cheltenham Countryside Race Day, Cheltenham. The iconic Race Day is part of the three-day Open meeting. One of the most popular events in the rural calendar, the day also raises money for the Countryside Alliance: www.cheltenham.co.uk/fixtures/the-open/
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
to advertise please call VICKY ASHBY on 0207 487 8409
My
COUNTRYSIDE
Jez Daughtry is the owner and head beekeeper of The Sheffield Honey Company
Beekeeper J EZ D AU G H TRY has turned his passion for the countryside into a profession after founding The Sheffield Honey Company have had a passion for beekeeping ever since I watched our neighbour, Mr Tyson, collecting a swarm when I was 14 years old. Being brought up in a large city like Sheffield sounds like you are a million miles from the countryside but it couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s a remarkable city, vibrant, diverse and yet incredibly green. The countryside forces itself to the very heart of the city via the valleys and rivers flowing from the Pennines. Drive in any direction for 15 minutes and you’re in open farmland or deep woodland – one of the key reasons why I started The Sheffield Honey Company. Having a passion for technology, my career in IT took me to places and gave me opportunities I would never have dreamed of, but in 2009 I found myself being made redundant and this gave me a chance to consider the unthinkable – could I become a bee farmer? My countryside is now my office. It wasn’t always that way but I got there in the end. From a very early age I loved to trade. At school we found pleasure in buying and selling sweets or fireworks for
I
a profit. Then the idea of combining this with my long-standing fascination with beekeeping was simply too hard to resist – looking back it seems inevitable. We now manage almost 300 colonies of bees across the wonderful city of Sheffield and also keep them out in the Peak District. Within just two years we are now the largest UK city-based honey
“SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO PINCH YOURSELF; THERE ARE MOMENTS WHEN I HAVE TO STOP AND THINK, ‘AM I REALLY DOING THIS?’”
farm and produce one of the finest honeys available. We keep our hives in a variety of locations, from museum roofs to secret green spaces and the river valleys that head down into Sheffield. Having such a diverse environment means we can produce highly bespoke honeys that reflect each part of the city and surrounding countryside. From
our light spring honey that we see in early May all the way through to darker summer flows in July. Of course, the crowning glory to each season is the migration of our hives in August to the moortops on the Pennines just a few miles away. Perhaps the most perfect location for pure heather honey. Sometimes you have to pinch yourself; there are moments each day when I have to stop and think, “Am I really doing this?” For me countryside is not something you just look at, it’s something you immerse yourself in. If you asked me three years ago what it meant I would have immediately been taken back to my misspent youth walking miles along streams and rivers in search of my next trout. Truth be told, a part of me will forever be on a river bank shooting a dry fly out for that next big catch!
Sweet success: Jez won one of our ‘Rural Oscars’
FURTHER INFORMATION Check The Sheffield Honey Company’s website for stockists: www.sheffield-honey.co.uk Follow Jez on Twitter @SheffieldHoney + Like The Sheffield Honey Company’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sheffieldhoney
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COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE | AUTUMN 2012
www.countryside-alliance.org.uk
2012/MEDIA INFORMATION
Reach 100,000 of the most passionate rural campaigners by advertising in Countryside Alliance Magazine
COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
The Countryside Alliance has 100,000 MEMBERS
ABOUT THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE The Countryside Alliance was formed in 1997 as an amalgamation of three organisations: The Countryside Business’s Group, the British Field Sports Society and the Countryside Movement. The primary purpose of the Countryside Alliance is to defend and promote a thriving, working countryside in Parliament, the media and to the public.
OUR MEMBERS The Alliance currently has over 100,000 members and uses Countryside Alliance magazine as the primary communication tool to inform and inspire members’ love of the countryside and the rural way of life. Its membership: • is 59% male, 31% female • has an average age of 57 • holds an average of £50,000 worth of shares • earns over £25k per year
“Countryside Alliance magazine is the ideal place to reach an audience passionate about country sports and the rural way of life”
COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE MAGAZINE 56,000 copies of Countryside Alliance are distributed quarterly to all member households as a part of their yearly package. A key member benefit, the magazine includes news, campaigns, events and features about hunting, fishing, shooting, food, rural affairs and the environment. Advertising in Countryside Alliance is the ideal way to reach an audience passionate about country sports and protecting the rural way of life.
COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
F O R P E O P L E W H O L OV E T H E C O U N T RY S I D E
2012/MEDIA INFORMATION
COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE
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OVER 20 GAME RECIPES Page 29
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