BASC has trained front-line police officers to raise awareness and improve their understanding of shooting sports and issues affecting people who live and work in the countryside.
A morning’s training was given to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Rural Policing team and Sussex Police’s lead for wildlife crime.
The training was designed to highlight different types of lawful shooting and identify what equipment each discipline required. The officers examined a selection of shotguns and rifles, traps and kit, while the training also focused on illegal activity affecting rural communities such as deer poaching and hare coursing.
Michelle Nudds, BASC England South East regional officer, said: “We have enjoyed working with Hampshire Constabulary and Sussex Police over the years and this is another demonstration of how they are keen to ensure rural policing is informed and updated on all aspects of shooting sports. Both forces feature swathes of rural areas and this training will not only benefit the officers and staff involved but also the rural communities in which they serve.
“Our specific input to raise awareness about shooting will hopefully bring about a better understanding of legitimate shooting activities and so improve contact between the police and those who shoot.”
Inspector Korine Bishop, strategic rural policing inspector for Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: “It is so important for all our officers to understand shooting sports and how these activities take place in the countryside. Rural locations present very different challenges so this is a great opportunity to obtain this sort of knowledge from BASC.”
ENDS