More than 80 gamekeepers and gamekeeping students got together at an event hosted by BASC Scotland at Blair Castle.
They attended a day of talks and presentations on subjects including mental health in the fieldsports community by BASC Council member Professor Ann Mortimer, gamebird health, trapping updates, processing shot game, beaver impacts in Scotland and an update from BASC Scotland director Dr Colin Shedden.
The delegates were updated on a Lyme Disease campaign by Alex Burnett MSP, who also presented the prize to the high gun in a clay shoot during the afternoon.
Jake Swindells, BASC Scotland officer and BASC Gamekeeping Working Group Secretary, said: “A great turnout of ‘keepers old and new made the day so worthwhile and being able to invite more trade members than in previous years was an added benefit.
“My thanks goes to all involved, particularly the Borders College gamekeeping students who went the extra mile to help.
“Efforts like this are a realistic representation of the gamekeeping community.”
BASC vice chairman Eoghan Cameron said: “Gamekeepers, ghillies and deer stalkers represent the engine of the fieldsports world. We rightly respect them as the custodians of the countryside, all too frequently the unsung heroes of conservation.
“We understand that without them, our sport, our countryside and its traditions would be greatly diminished. I was therefore hugely encouraged to see so many keepers of all generations, particularly students, attend Blair Atholl. This unique annual event illustrates the importance BASC places on supporting the gamekeeping community and I look forward to its continued success.”