Living in and enjoying the countryside, I am a keen shooter and have been a member of the association since the early 1990s. I am acutely aware critics are relentless in their endeavours to curb the sport and demonise those participating in it. The value obtained by members from a strong BASC is critical in ensuring we, and others like-minded as us, continue to enjoy all that the rural landscape offers, as well as driving the extraordinary, practical conservation activities, whether coastal or inland, which assist mother nature. It is also important not to lose sight of the economic benefits which many communities, rural or otherwise would be denied if shooting was curtailed. We would also miss out on some great-tasting food.

The ‘for and against’ equation for sustainable shooting and conservation must be constantly balanced and advanced. I am convinced the voice of reason strategy adopted by the
BASC is a sensible course. Anything I can do on behalf of my fellow members to grow the association, protect and promote shooting and conservation and supplement the great work of the BASC team, under the leadership of chief executive Ian Bell, would be a privilege.

I believe that, as a member of the BASC Council, I would have much to offer the organisation and the membership. I’m an engaging professional, diplomatic, tactful, passionate, enthusiastic and resourceful, with a good appreciation of what can be gained from collaborative working focussed on positive outcomes. During the last 40 years, I have worked in senior positions, using my communications skills and life experience to help manage many high-profile and sensitive issues. I am familiar with scrutinising information and acting in the role of a critical friend to aid quality decision-making. I have my feet ‘firmly on the ground’ having worked with special advisors and policymakers in government and the opposition and understand the ‘mechanics’ of the Whitehall and the Palace of Westminster. As a communications advisor, I have authored evidence which has been presented to select committees and responded to arguments made by pressure groups in a compelling and helpful way.

I’m a strategic thinker, without losing sight of the detail. In recent years, I am proud to have delivered effective communication skills training to many of the BASC staff and others, including Council members. The purpose of this training is to underpin BASC’s public relations and public affairs activity, equipping people with the knowledge and understanding of what the media wants and how to get the best from opportunities as they present themselves across multiple channels. Travelling to BASC offices, across England and Scotland, has been eye-opening. I have gained an appreciation of the wide-ranging activities and work undertaken in support of the membership.

In summary, if appointed, I am confident I will bring relevant experience and calm professionalism to this role, gained from working well with people, in complex situations, often when under pressure.