BASC chairman Peter Glenser has warned against complacency in shooting as the game season draws to a close.
Mr Glenser urged shooters to use down-time in the off season to continue to promote the benefits of shooting and eating of game meat.
He said: “A number of threats to shooting are lurking in the shadows and it is up to us to lead by example and show that shooting is a sport which is enjoyable, safe and undertaken to the highest of standards.
“The sustainable supply of game meat to the food chain is one of the most important issues facing game shooting. All shoots must take responsibility to ensure they have a sustainable market for what they shoot before they shoot.
“People who shoot can help with this by spreading the word about the great taste of game. They could give a dressed brace to a friend as the season closes or speak to local pubs and restaurants about putting it on the menu next season.”
Mr Glenser added: “The end of the season is always sad but we have lots to look forward to in the coming months. We have an exciting off-season coming up, with our new chief executive Ian Bell due to officially take up his role later on this month and BASC members receiving complimentary entry to the Game Fair this summer.
“The close season allows us time to take part in pigeon shooting and deer stalking and foreshore wildfowling will continue until 20th February. The importance of high standards in all aspects of shooting will continue to be to be to the fore in the coming season. We must all take responsibility to ensure shooting continues to thrive – we can all play a part in encouraging new people to share our passion.”
A BASC infographic highlighting the benefits of game shooting can be found here.
ENDS