With the game shooting season now at an end, we look back at some of BASC’s highlights from across the winter, starting in Scotland with two Young Shots days.

Engaging young people remains central to BASC’s work, helping them understand shooting, safety and their place within the wider countryside.

BASC Scotland recently ran two Young Shots days that gave young members the chance to take part in a traditional shoot day under close supervision, with a clear focus on safe gun handling and responsibility.

The first took place during the Christmas period with Eskdale Shooting Services in the Scottish Borders. The day introduced how a shoot is organised and how to shoot safely in line, with experienced mentors and coaches supporting the young shots throughout. 

Several attendees marked important firsts, including first partridges, a first woodcock and first pheasants. The pace of the day allowed time to talk things through, with everyone coming together over elevenses. 

BASC Scotland is hugely grateful to Wilson Young Snr, Wilson Young Jnr and the wider Eskdale team for their generosity and support.

The second Young Shots day was hosted by gamekeeper Mike Holliday at Glen Ample estate. Mike and his team worked hard to ensure the day ran smoothly, sharing their experience and setting clear standards on safety and good gun handling. Having different generations in the field proved particularly valuable, offering the young participants the opportunity to learn from those with many years’ experience under their belt.

BASC Scotland would like to thank Eskdale Shooting Services and Glen Ample, as well as the keepers, beaters, staff, members and volunteers who gave their time to support the young shots. Their involvement ensured both days were safe, welcoming and hugely enjoyable.