BASC helps fund outdoor classroom

BASC has donated £1,000 to help fund a new “forest classroom” in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

The association supported fundraising activities by the Yorkshire Dales Moorland Group including charity auction lots and a special gundog test.

The Moorland Group runs a series of educational events throughout the year which highlight the benefits of grouse moor management to habitats and species and rural communities.

The funds they have raised for the outdoor classroom will enable local children to spend more time with gamekeepers and learn about the moors surrounding their school and villages.

To celebrate the finished classroom local children and gamekeepers gathered to cut the ribbon and announce the facility was open as a base for outdoor learning.

Gareth Dockerty, BASC North regional officer, said: “When we heard about the fundraising for this facility, we were very keen to help.

“Thanks to the generosity of the shooting community, BASC North has raised over £30,000 this year to fund youngsters, conservation and education.

“Being able to support the hard work of gamekeepers and the Dales Moorland Group is a great use of our fundraising.

“It is real positive to see organisations and groups working together on the important issues of conservation and education.

“The moorland groups are priceless in helping educate local communities about the many benefits of shooting.”