WHT loan helps Bridgwater Bay wildfowlers buy new land

The Wildlife Habitat Trust (WHT) has given Bridgwater Bay Wildfowlers Association a loan of £14,000 towards the purchase of new land for the club.

The purchase of 6.22 acres consists of low-lying wetlands and traditional pasture. The club says it was a “welcome addition” to the its portfolio and would allow members to maintain the conservation of the land and offer new opportunities during the wildfowling season.

Jeremy Bell, land steward for Bridgwater Bay Wildfowlers Association, said: “The WHT loan to buy six acres was pivotal in allowing us to continue to forge ahead with our goal of buying strategically placed land and securing the club’s future for shooting and conservation.

“The comprehensive process of application for the loan was clear to understand and was dealt with very efficiently. I would highly recommend the procedure to any club looking to do a similar venture.”

Paul Williamson, BASC’s head of land management, said: “We have a proud history of working with the Bridgwater Bay Wildfowlers Association and are thrilled that the club has once again made a successful land purchase enabling the continued provision of access for its members.

“We applaud the club’s valuable contribution and long-term commitment to land and wildlife conservation, particularly their work on sustainable habitat management which is vital to the Somerset area.”

The WHT is dedicated to raising and distributing funds to help with the acqusition of land for conservation and shooting. It was established in 1986 by members of the UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC).

ENDS