First ever Shooting UK Gamekeeper Day storming success

Liam Bell is the head gamekeeper at stunning Millichope Park, a traditional family-owned and run estate. He is also a regional chairman of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation and a judge for the annual Time Inc. Shooting Industry Awards. Shooting Times readers will know Liam from his popular “On the Shoot” column and as one of the experts for the ‘Sporting Answers’ page.

Richard Barnes from Kings Covercrops also joined the event and the knowledgeable pair took attendees on an informative journey through the year of a gamekeeper and provided invaluable insight into how to manage a traditional shoot.

An overview of the tasks and challenges faced by gamekeepers

From rearing game birds and predator control, to cover crops, woodland management and conservation, the presentation provided not only a great overview of the tasks and challenges a gamekeeper faces but Liam also provided practical tips and useful cost saving ideas for anyone thinking of running their own shoot.

The group were taken on a tour of the hatchery, release pens, woodland and shoot layouts and throughout the day, Liam and Richard Barnes were on hand to answer questions and discuss issues from their audience.

Renewed enthusiasm

It was a fantastic day – despite the rain – and everyone not only walked away with renewed enthusiasm and a head full of information, each also received a signed copy of Liam’s new book “On your shoot: A Practical Guide to Running Your Own Shoot”, which will be on sale from mid-July.

If you are coming up to the CLA Game Fair in July, you will be able to purchase the book on the Shooting Times/Shooting Gazette/Sporting Gun stand T1505 and Liam will be there on one of the days to sign your copy.

Here’s what some of the attendees had to say about the Gamekeeper Day experience

“A thought provoking and informative day. Very well run. Liam’s depth of knowledge and passion really shines through. Would highly recommend attending this course whatever your experience of gamekeeping.” Darren Bichard and Ian Wiggett

“Very informative, fantastic location. Liam has a great way of communicating his in-depth knowledge of the art of being a successful gamekeeper. Really well organised from start to finish. I will be recommending this day to other interested parties.” Tony Hulme 

“Very informative. Was good to be around someone who not only is a Gamekeeper day in day out but very passionate about it, willing to diversify to make a shoot work and try other ways. I learnt a lot from the day. Very enjoyable.” Gareth Powner

“Very enjoyable day. Learnt a lot from it and the scenery was fantastic.” Andrew Wolstencroft