Countryside organisations come together to support rural charities

Teams to compete for Hugh van Cutsem Challenge Cup

HVC Challenge Tropy for webOrganisations and businesses are coming together to raise money for charity at the Countryside Clay Shoot to be held at the Six Mile Bottom shooting estate in Cambridgeshire on 9th August 2014.

Proceeds from the day will raise money for the Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust (GWT), which provides financial grants for gamekeepers, stalkers and ghillies in times of hardship, and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), a grant-making charity which offers financial help to retired and working farming people.

The event, which is being organised by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), will see 50 teams competing across six stands with a mix of simulated game targets. Organisations supporting the event include the Countryside Alliance, the CLA, the Moorland Association and the National Gamekeepers Organisation.

The winning team will receive the Hugh van Cutsem Challenge Cup, dedicated to the memory of the keen shot and countryman, which will be presented by Emilie van Cutsem.

GWT chief executive Helen Benson said: “We feel extremely privileged to be nominated as one of the charities to benefit from this fantastic clay shoot which promises to be a superb event at a very special venue and for a common purpose. There is no doubt that our work is increasing and therefore support and awareness is required in equal measure. We would like to thank BASC most sincerely for bringing organisations together to support both GWT and RABI.”

R.A.B.I. chief executive Paul Burrows said: “We are grateful to BASC for nominating R.A.B.I. as one of the charities to benefit from the clay shoot. Like many rural business people, farmers are facing challenging times. Opportunities to raise funds for our work are therefore very much appreciated.”

BASC’s Chairman Martyn Howat said: “This promises to be an enjoyable event with a serious purpose. Charity clay shoots have the potential to raise large sums for very good causes and I would urge shooters to come along and take part.”

The day will start at 9.00am and cost £600 for a four-man team with all clays, cartridges and lunch included. Bacon rolls will also be served on arrival.

Places are limited so advance booking is essential. To book a place please contact BASC Central on 01283 810910 or central@0ld.basc.org.uk.