Cameron Thomas MP has visited a syndicate shoot in his Gloucestershire constituency to better understand the benefits the sector brings.
The newly-elected Liberal Democrat MP for Tewkesbury, visited the Knoll Hill syndicate to gain an insight into the shoot’s approach to conservation work, sustainable land management and the challenges facing the local shooting community.
Beginning with a breakfast of their own pheasant and venison sausage sandwiches, discussions were held on firearms licensing, before the group headed out on a tour of the shoot.
The MP learned about the year-round work that goes into running a syndicate and there were further talks on the economic, environmental and social benefits that shooting provides, ranging from job creation to habitat management.
BASC regional officer Sam Walker said: “It was fantastic to host Cameron as part of building key relationships that help highlight the incredible work the shooting community does. Ensuring MPs are well-informed about the realities and benefits of shooting is crucial. Cameron showed he was engaged and open to hearing our perspectives. Thank you to the Knoll Hill syndicate for welcoming us and for their ongoing support — visits like this make a real difference.”
BASC’s presence at this year’s Stalking Show brings into focus the growing enthusiasm for deer management, believes James Sutcliffe.