BASC mourns death of communications chief

A prominent voice for shooting

BASC has paid tribute to Christopher Graffius, its executive director of communications and public affairs, who died peacefully in his sleep on 11 February after a long illness.

Mr Graffius, 67, had worked for the association for almost 25 years, during which time he became a prominent voice for shooting sports.

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Christopher Graffius – greatly missed

BASC chief executive Ian Bell said:

“It is with great sadness that we share the news of Christopher’s passing. He had been ill for some time, but his dedication never wavered. For Christopher, supporting shooting was not simply a profession but a vocation and a way of life.

“His contribution to BASC and to the world of shooting was immense, and he will be greatly missed by colleagues and friends alike. Our thoughts are with Christopher’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”

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A tireless champion

BASC chairman Eoghan Cameron described Mr Graffius as “a tireless champion of our cause”. 

“Even in the most challenging times, his focus on defending our community never faltered,” Mr Cameron said. “He was deeply respected across our organisation and beyond, and his commitment and professionalism will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him.”

The Marquess of Hamilton, BASC president, added:

“Christopher embodied the very best of BASC – integrity, commitment, thoughtfulness and a deep belief in the importance of what we do. He will be remembered with great affection and respect.”

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A close friend

Conservative MP for the North Cotswolds and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Shooting and Conservation, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, paid tribute to Mr Graffius as both a colleague and a friend:

“I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Christopher Graffius,” he said. “I worked with him closely on the APPG. I always found him to be incredibly enthusiastic and hugely supportive in that role and over the years, he became a close friend.

“What Christopher didn’t know about shooting wasn’t worth knowing, and he was a fountain of knowledge and support. He worked tirelessly to support the APPG and was working until the very last few days.

“Shooting would be in a very different place today if it was not for him. I send my deepest sympathy to his family.”