Grassroots efforts recognised as BASC scales up participation drive

Celebrating a pioneer

BASC has recognised a Somerset member who pioneered female participation in shooting, as the organisation’s own events programme sees multiple sessions reach capacity across England, Scotland and Wales.

Sarah-Jane Longbottom received a Special Presentation Award for founding Somerset Lady Guns, one of the South West’s first dedicated female shooting groups, which ran for 15 years. The group helped dozens of women transition from clay to game shooting through driven shoots, simulated game days and educational events.

Beyond organising shoots, Ms Longbottom regularly hosted BASC briefings at her home on legislation and conservation, and provided hands-on training in rifle shooting, deer stalking and game preparation.

Sam Walker, BASC South West regional officer, said: “Sarah-Jane’s contribution to shooting in the region has been truly remarkable. Through her generosity and commitment, she has created lasting opportunities for women to get involved in the sport.”

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Growing participation

The recognition comes as BASC ramps up its events calendar targeting women, younger shooters and newcomers this season. Recent weeks have seen a women’s introduction to partridge shooting in Powys, a young shots wildfowling day in Gloucestershire, and a novice game day at Hartpury College for newcomers to driven shooting. Several upcoming events have already sold out.

Speaking at the partridge day in Powys, Steve Griffiths, BASC’s Wales director, said he was “delighted” to see more women getting into shooting. He explained that the purpose of the day was to give those participants “the confidence and knowledge they need to enjoy the sport safely and responsibly”.

BASC Women in Shooting broke its record for female membership at the end of September, following a summer that saw record attendance at receptions during The Game Fair and Scottish Game Fair.

Curtis Mossop, BASC’s head of education and outreach, said: “At the heart of BASC’s mission to promote and protect sporting shooting is the belief that our future depends on widening participation and growing our community.”

He continued: “Through our initiatives, BASC inspires and supports thousands of people to take up shooting sports and other country pursuits each year, with a particular focus on engaging underrepresented groups such as young people and women, ensuring that the next generation of shooters reflects the diversity, passion and strength of the wider countryside community.”

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A lasting legacy

Although Somerset Lady Guns concluded after 15 years, Ms Longbottom’s work exemplifies the grassroots efforts BASC is scaling nationally, with members and the organisation working in tandem to secure the sport’s future.