Furious backlash to Countryfile feature on gamekeepers

Presenter Matt Baker spent time with students training as gamekeepers. As part of the study, students were taught to shoot deer and butcher the quarry afterwards. The point of the feature was to address some of the misconceptions the public holds about gamekeepers and the voiceover made clear that deer culling was important for environmental reasons, rather than fun. You can watch the clip here. 

Countryfile favourite Matt Baker is no stranger to country pursuits. His parents were sheep farmers in Durham and so he was well positioned to present the story.

However, the piece struck a wrong note with many viewers who took to social media to express their disapproval.

Gamekeepers are custodians of the countryside according to Countryfile sadly many are also wildlife criminals which they failed to mention

— dominic dyer (@domdyer70) February 15, 2016

Just switched off Countryfile after hearing gamekeepers are custodeans of the countryside, what a joke.

— Keith Ryan (@KeithRyan19) February 14, 2016

https://twitter.com/charliemoores/status/698978981618565120

On the plus side, many viewers were pleased to see another point of view put forward, which might seem at odds to Countryfile’s sometimes ‘fluffy’ image of the countryside.

Looks like @BBCCountryfile may have ruffled some feather last night https://t.co/BPEdhvb2Dw #Countryfile pic.twitter.com/ky4A3ugJdt

— The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (@Gameandwildlife) February 15, 2016

@Gameandwildlife @BBCCountryfile Heartening to see those young people working towards a career in countryside management. More please BBC.

— Ian's Country (@BoTerrier) February 15, 2016

https://twitter.com/LNJStokes/status/699170751857950720

Have to admit not always a fan. but well done #Countryfile on the #gamekeepers at @EastonOtley

— Matt Limb Images (@MattLimbImages) February 14, 2016

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