BASC

Tom brings us all the action from day 2 of Crufts 2024 - Gundog day. BASC has a long history at Crufts and runs the renowned Gamekeepers’ Ring at the show, celebrating the best working gundogs in the country. As well as breed classes for working dogs and gamekeepers’ dogs, BASC classes include gamekeeper teams and working gundog teams, plus the ever-popular young handler classes where youngsters get their chance to show dogs that have worked throughout the season. Whether you’re competing or spectating, Crufts is the pinnacle of the dog show world, a fantastic day out and a wonderful opportunity to see our working gundogs in the spotlight.

This month we explore one of the most popular sports in the UK, airgun shooting. Former shooting champion, BASC’s very own Richard Fussell, talks us through the allure of airgunning and why it proves to be the perfect introduction for young people into the sport. We also hear from the team at BSA Guns who lift the curtain on what it takes to design and manufacture their market leading rifles. Plus, the ‘UK natural capital accounts report’ is out. BASC’s Ian Danby updates us on this crucial data designed to measure the financial and societal value of natural resources to people in the UK.

Tom heads to Kent to explore how thoughtful shoot management plays a big part in creating a healthy woodland. With the help of gamekeeper Adam Horn, we learn how sustainable shooting provides huge benefits to the ecosystem as a whole.

On this episode we focus on the move away from lead ammunition, explore the proposed restrictions and discuss whether the shooting community is embracing the change.

For this special episode, Tom travels to BASC head office to explore how the firearms team help foster and develop strong relationships with the various government agencies and how they ensure the police are working as efficiently as possible. We also hear from Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, Marc Jones, who comments on the frustrations BASC members face when applying or renewing their license.

Our December podcast includes The Big Christmas Countryside Quiz, how to improve your festive menu, traditions of the Boxing Day shoot and a thank you to our amazing BASC volunteers.

Tom visits The Gloucestershire Wildfowling and Conservation Association and tries his luck on an evening flight. Plus a brief round-up of all the most important stories from BASC.

All the latest news from BASC, including NRW's decision to halt plans to license the release of gamebirds in Wales. BASC food ambassador Rachel Green with some creative options for your shoot lunch, and Tom visits the clay shooting line at the game fair.

Join Tom in the Peak District as he discovers how a grouse moor day is put together. Also updates on United Utilities, as well as the Hen Harriers brood management project.

Tom catches up with some colleagues at the Game Fair and discusses the ongoing Home Office firearms licensing consultation.

The latest episode of BASC’s official podcast includes the latest news regarding Defra’s eleventh hour changes to the licensing system for releasing gamebirds on certain protected sites, and covers the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill in detail, hearing from those who are at the centre of BASC’s work.

The latest BASC podcast episode has Tom speaking to various BASC staff from around the UK on their work, events and membership benefits on the ground. From planning shows, training and educational events, to firearms and membership enquiries, this episode showcases the breadth of BASC’s work and reach.

Tom speaks to businesses and individuals that will be impacted by the NRW proposals and Conor reminds listeners on how to respond to the consultation.

BASC’s Steve Griffiths and Conor O’Gorman discuss the Welsh government’s proposal to licence all gamebird releasing and the BASC Act Now campaign which is opposing the plans.

With the warmer months fast approching, Tom talks to Julia Knight, Lyme disease campaigner, about tick bite prevention and the lack of knowledge amongst the general public and medical profession. Also BASC's deer advisor, James Sutcliffe, on dealing with ticks in the field.

BASC’s head of wildfowling James Green looks back on an eventful season, talks about wildfowling’s conservation objectives and how to get involved.

Listen back to the best of 2022. Highlights include Countryfile's Adam Henson, a trip to the National Shooting Centre at Bisley and Bill Harriman on theThe Antiques Roadshow.

Tom discusses firearms licensing with the MET's firearms licensing manager Inspector Chris Downs, as well as BASC’s Martin Parker.

Tom talks to Dr Marnie Lovejoy about BASC policy on woodcock shooting, Defra’s upcoming review of quarry species and why conservation listings don’t always work.

BASC’s Bill Harriman talks to Tom about his love of antique firearms and his best anecdotes from 30 years’ worth of appearances on Antiques Roadshow.