Innholdsfortegnelse for 12-Jan-2022 i Shooting Times & Country

A plan intended to block trail hunting has been branded ‘ill thought out’ and potentially harmful. Conservative backbenchers Sir Roger Gale and Henry Smith have proposed amendments to the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, which is currently before Parliament. Their plan is to end the use of animal-based scents for trail hunting. Writing on the Conservative Home website, North Thanet MP Sir Roger said: “My amendment calls for the intentional or reckless participation in laying or following an animal-based scent for hunting activities to become an offence, liable to a fine, imprisonment, or both.” However, those with a better grasp of rural life were quick to point out that this could have significant unlooked-for consequences. Under Sir Roger’s proposal, the only dogs that could be trained to follow animal-based scents…

High peaks stand in a cloak of cloud. All around the air is crisp cold and the winter skies are blue. Fog, low cloud and mist all mean it’s a waiting game but, when mountain hunting for sika is the objective, it’s always worth the hanging around. I’d done my share of waiting as Storm Barra came and went and — with the children’s trampoline retrieved from the neighbour’s garden — my day on the mountain was set. As a guide for local sporting agent John Fenton, I take guests out in all weathers but there are some days that are specially made for the high mountain. And when those days are forecast, I always set time aside to go and make the most of them. Panorama With no attention…

Coming off the hill exhausted, the cabin finally came into view. The vision of its bright red timber beneath the corrugated roof brought warmth back into my soul, if not my fingers. We were staying in a fishing lodge hidden in the Scottish hills, only accessible via hours of winding forestry tracks and unpenetrated by phone signal of any type. It was a time capsule unchanged for 200 years, unburdened by the modern world hidden from its view. Behind the screeching midge-proof shutter, my eyes adjusted to the dim gas lighting. I shed my wet layers and hunched down in a crusty old armchair glowing with the light of the stove. Warming up, I gazed around at the cobwebbed taxidermy and wondrous black-and-white images of previous members adorned with trilbies…

At the beginning of the new year we often start to reflect on the season and the performances we’ve put in: the good, the bad and the ugly. A season can bring many highlights and an equal number of outings you’re keen to forget, no matter who you are. One of the joys of spending as much time in the field as I do is that I’ve had the privilege — if you can call it that — of seeing some of the country’s very best Shots falling apart. I always think keen Shots should make sporting resolutions that involve getting better. The better we shoot, the more we enjoy it and good shooting is ethical shooting. Wounding birds should be minimised. Shooting lessons, getting a proper gunfit, dry mounting…

The SUV market is bursting with choice and SsangYong has thrown an even bigger hat into the mix with its all-new Rexton. Previously, the Rexton was a remodelled Mercedes, but now the Korean outfit has taken charge of the whole shebang with this fifth-generation model. The Rexton comes in two versions, the Ventura and the higher-spec Ultimate. We’re taking a look at the Rexton Ultimate 2.2 diesel automatic. With seven seats and selectable 4x4, the Rexton could tick a few boxes, but can it give the big boys a run for their money? “It dealt with the woods well, with more than enough traction for the slippery bits” It is a smart rig that certainly looks rather executive. The styling is modern — some interesting angles are set off with…

Our last day dawned clear and cold, frost diamonds sparkled, the sun shone. We went to the shore for this last flight and I got into the broom bushes, tucked well out of a rather wicked little wind that sprang up soon after sunrise. I felt a pang that this was the last day of our trip. How quickly the good times race by in life. They fly like those moving gleams of sunlight when clouds chase over. Yet, by their very transient nature, these great days of sports are relished more and remembered better. To the east the sky was radiant but barred with grey clouds, which foretold snow. Gulls began to pass up the water’s edge, not 20 yards distant. What lazy birds they seemed to be with…

HENRY ATKIN Henry Atkin was the first employee James Purdey hired when he started his business in 1814. His son (also Henry Atkin) apprenticed there and worked for Purdey for a decade. He set up his own business in 1877. He took on the premises at 2 Jermyn Street in 1890, making that the earliest date this label could have been used. By 1905, Henry Atkin was a limited company and moved to 41 Jermyn Street, so this label’s latest date is 1905. Henry Atkin died in 1907, so this was one of the last labels used during the tenure of the founder. DH…

New two-year general licences have been issued for England. They cover the same range of species as the previous ones — however, there are other changes. The general licences allow the control of bird species that would otherwise be protected, such as woodpigeons and carrion crows. The licences were considered uncontroversial and effective and were used by farmers, shoots and conservation bodies. However, their legality was challenged by Wild Justice, whose action in the spring of 2019 placed the chicks and eggs of threatened species at needless risk. A series of temporary licences followed and now countryside organisations have welcomed the news that the current licences will last for two years. Part-time pest controller Alan Scholes told Shooting Times: “The situation has been ridiculous, with no one knowing what the…

CHECK Keep a look out for wildfowling bans as the weather hardens. A sudden change towards colder weather is a real possibility at this time of year and if that weather is prolonged, it can lead to a suspension of wildfowling. Club secretaries should make their members aware of any suspension, but you should also keep a close eye on the BASC or Defra websites. CHECK Speak to farmers ahead of lambing. A few pedigree flocks will be starting to lamb now and the height of the lambing season is rapidly approaching. Therefore now is the time to approach farmers about fox and corvid control; whether they need it and if so how they want it done. Rocking up in the middle of a busy lambing with a lamp and…

Cereal prices have continued on an upward surge, leaving shoots facing dramatically increased feed bills. According to figures published by the AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board), feed-quality wheat, which makes up the majority of gamebird feed in winter, is now selling for an average of £225.10 per tonne, up from £193.70 per tonne at the same time last year. This means that filling a typical five-tonne feed hopper will cost nearly £160 more than it did a year ago. While the rise in wheat prices has been steep, barley has risen even more rapidly. In late October, arable farmers in predominantly livestock farming areas were already reporting being able to sell feed-quality barley at more than £200 per tonne, an almost unheard of price. National prices now average more…

Liam Bell raised some good points (Gamekeeper, 15 December 2021). Giving youngsters the opportunity to join the beating line is undoubtedly a nice way to introduce the next generation to the game-shooting fraternity. Not only can it encourage a lifelong interest in both fieldsports and the natural world, but it also helps improve children’s confidence by meeting new people and learning new social skills. An overlooked aspect is that the beating line can be a showcase for our sport. Not all teenagers will become engaged with shooting long term but will simply be happy to earn some pocket money, as was the case with some of my children’s friends. The positive is that, 20 years later, the ‘boys and girls’ still talk fondly about the banter they enjoyed during those…

I sit in a Land Rover as I write this, awaiting the crackle of the radio, occasionally glancing up at the impenetrable wall of white beyond the dash. It was supposed to be nice, but I’m working near Drumochter and the forecast doesn’t account for the vengeful grey clouds that seem to live here. Rain and fog aside, I’m really going to miss this place. Next week marks the end of my contract here. It’s my fifth year working as a gillie and it may be my last — as 2022 starts I’m pursuing the self-employed route into the deer industry. I am of no use to the stalker in this fog; all I can do is wait until he needs me. Well, there’s nothing like drinking coffee and reminiscing…

The great lake at Burghley House meanders in a lazy fashion through the grounds of Burghley Park, and covers 25 acres. Designed by Capability Brown, it was hand dug and became the striking focal point for many of the Park’s vistas. However, over 200 years the build up of silt had caused the lake to become stagnant and unhealthy. Action was required, and after an extensive dredging programme lasting six years, the lake has been restored to its former glory. A visiting ecologist told me this year that it was the healthiest body of water he had encountered in a decade. Given how much we care for and sensitively manage the water course, this was a proud moment. Alongside the plethora of fish and flora, the lake is home to…

LAST WEEK, I WROTE about the difficulties of viewing the dogs competing in the Retriever Championship (Viewpoint, 5 January). It’s a bit like trying to watch a football match being played in a young tree plantation — for most of the time, you can see the key players but you rarely see the ball. Spectators at the championship (Returning with the top honours, 5 January) are prepared for this and seldom complain. Social media has come to their help, as I discovered that many were being kept informed of what was going on by checking Facebook on their smartphones. An observer in the line was relaying the latest news to them. It’s a system that works well but is heavy on battery power. Though they might not always be able…

Modern airgun shooting must seem quite baffling to newcomers or those who grew up in simpler times. I would even go as far to say that the expensive and cumbersome kit and all the must-have accessories could even be rather off-putting for anyone thinking about having a go. I am as guilty as anyone for falling into the new kit trap. Modern gear such as super-accurate precharged airguns, sophisticated thermal optics and expensive camouflage clothing can help to put more pests in the bag — if you use them properly — but the truth is you only need the simplest of kit to enjoy the satisfaction of successful airgun shooting. Hi-tech gear is not much use unless you have mastered the basics, and I will be the first to say…

THE SSANGYONG REXTON Ventura starts off at a price of £37,995 and the higher-spec Ultimate starts at £40,665. This Ultimate with metallic paint is a little shy of £42,000. It’s incredible value for money with the level of kit and the overall quality of the Rexton. It’s definitely a lot of car for the money and, with a seven-year, 150,000-mile warranty, SsangYong is confident in its product. Overall, I was really impressed with the modern, comfortable interior and good performance on and off-road. I can only fault it on the suspension at low speeds — and the general consensus on the front grille from my beaters was harsh, but I like it. It’s a rating of four out of five from me. NEED TO KNOW Manufacturer SsangYong Model Rexton Ultimate…

Most shooters have an affinity with the countryside and if you live in a built-up area, you might dream of retiring to the country. A new report from a think tank called the Social Market Foundation might give you pause for thought. One of its researchers has warned that moving from urban areas to the countryside or coast could have unforeseen consequences. “Local authority areas where the majority of residents are over 65 could struggle to provide their populations with adequate services,” he said. “Too many retirees end up in unsuitable, oversized and unsafe homes, while rising property prices exclude younger families from local housing.” When I was on the board of a national park authority, a planning policy was being touted that would have blocked the building of homes…

Investment giant Aviva Investors has become the latest company to salve its corporate conscience with a tree-planting scheme in the Highlands. The London-based firm, in partnership with Par Equity, has bought a large area of moorland at Glen Dye in Aberdeenshire and intends to plant trees on it. The planting will be a mix of native trees and ‘productive conifers’. Daniel McHugh, Aviva’s chief investment officer, real assets, said: “This is the first of many investments we expect to make in this space, and the intention is for our carbon removal programme to be considered a best-in-class initiative.” However, a local source, speaking anonymously to Shooting Times, suggested that challenges may lie ahead. “Glen Dye is a stronghold of mountain hares,” they pointed out. “First we have to ask what…

Illegal hare coursers will soon be hit with a range of new powers and penalties after Defra announced a crackdown. The move follows a successful campaign by gamekeeper and Shooting Times contributor Ed Coles (inset). Ed, whose shoot is frequently hit by illegal coursers, has been campaigning for tougher penalties and more police powers to crack down on the organised crime gangs. Now, Defra has announced that it will bring forward a suite of legal changes to strengthen the provisions of anti-poaching legislation and that prison sentences will be available for the worst offenders. “Crops have been destroyed, people threatened, hares killed” Under the proposals, the two key pieces of 19th-century legislation used to tackle poachers — the Game Act 1831 and the Night Poaching Act 1828 — will be…

Working Millie, my spaniel, on days out shooting has been one of the great joys in my life over the past six years. Ever since I got her in 2014 and started training, she has been a source of fun, challenge, contentment and pride. Her natural gift for finding and retrieving game has helped to forgive the inevitable mistakes I have made in training my first dog. Nevertheless, between us, we’ve made a decent team. It is difficult to watch dogs age and to see them start to slow down slightly, getting to the end of the last drive of the day with an exhausted look on their face. They get home, lap up some supper and then crash on their bed, without a further care in the world until…

“There’s no point complaining about farming’s future if you turned down the chance to shape it,” said James Black over the background babble of Guns and beaters and roar of the tractor that towed our trailer to the first drive. James is the managing director of David Black & Son Ltd, a large family farming enterprise. Members of the Black clan have been working this bit of Suffolk since 1898 and they have always been innovators. “You may not realise this, but we are on the cusp of a revolution,” James continued. I was all too aware and I knew that James is one of the more unlikely revolutionaries. Aside from some existing mid-tier stewardship blocks, the Blacks, once famed as highly intensive farmers, have placed a significant part of…

I’d be happy to use any of these for foxing, rabbiting or ratting. Each has its own pros and cons, so it’s up to you to decide which best suits you and your budget. Although the Pulsar is the most expensive, you have the added bonus of being able to front-mount the unit. The NiteVizor proves that excellent quality night vision doesn’t have to break the bank, while the Pard provides an affordable and lightweight option. My only advice would be, if you’re using any of these units beyond 90m, get an infrared illuminator, a clever bit of kit that provides invisible ambient light, therefore increasing the performance and range of your night-vision system.…

The problem with this time of year is it all gets a bit busy,” Charlie informed me when I asked him if he fancied going pike fishing. He spread out his fingers and began ticking off his upcoming pressing engagements. “I’ve got rugby training on Monday, a match on Wednesday and all that school stuff. Saturday I am playing Xbox and then another rugby match on Sunday.” I struggled to control my smile as I looked at his earnest expression. “Well,” I said. “Perhaps you could forgo the Xbox so we can go fishing on Saturday?” My son has become sufficiently worldly wise that he recognises a rhetorical question when he hears one. Thus he agreed that a weekend angling session on the banks of the Great Ouse may find…

The term ‘Christmas box’ dates back to the 17th century and refers to a gratuity or present traditionally given to workers on the first weekday after Christmas as thanks for their service throughout the year. As a result, the first weekday after Christmas is now known as Boxing Day. As Christmas Day 2021 fell on a Saturday, the true Boxing Day was on Monday 27 December. It is in acknowledgement of this tradition that trail-hunting communities continue to give hunt staff Christmas boxes each year, the ethos being appreciation of others. Hacking to the Boxing Day meet, I was gripped with nervous anticipation of what the day would hold. I had recently started to question my faith in the greater good as — certainly if the mainstream media was to…

Extra boost for night vision AIRGUNNING Q My digital night-vision scope works perfectly well for close-range ratting with my airgun, but it lacks the detection range for spotting rabbits at distance. It is set on maximum sensitivity and its illuminator is on full output. Is there anything else I can do to improve its performance? A Try using an external infrared illuminator. The illuminators that come fitted to, or supplied with, night-vision optics deliver reasonable performance, but aftermarket models tend to be better and almost always boost detection range, especially if you go for a quality model. Most infrared illuminators look like small handheld torches and either attach to the sight or gun. You may need to buy a mount to do that. Angle-adjustable ones are best as they enable…