Young people and conservation projects will benefit from £30,000 raised by BASC North at an auction and celebration dinner.
The auction at Gosforth Park Marriot Hotel in Newcastle and the celebration dinner at the Inn at Whitewell in Lancashire raised the money for BASC Young Shots, conservation projects in the north of England and the North East Youth charity.
BASC North director Duncan Thomas said: “The Inn at Whitewell event in Lancashire has steadily grown over the last four years and it remains the flagship northern event and bedrock of the region’s fundraising efforts. It gives the shooting community a relaxed evening of celebration and a chance to bid on some unique, generously-donated experiences and shooting auction lots.”
Next year’s dinner will be on the 16th March. Contact Rachel.Hatton@basc.org.uk for further details.
Mr Thomas added: “The Whitewell dinner was supported this year with a ‘sister’ event at the Gosforth Park Hotel in Newcastle. This pioneering evening was something a little different and was organised in partnership with NE Youth and North East Charity, who provide sporting and cultural opportunities for youngsters from all backgrounds.
“The event attracted more than 200 guests and showcased local game, trades and the success stories of both NE Youth and in particular the BASC North Young Shots Ambassador programme.
“The fundraising allows BASC North to run projects like Young Shots and Ladies Shooting, while also supporting new events and ideas. These include the ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ schools’ education project, duck nesting tube and bird nest box projects plus plans to support future wetland creation schemes on working shoots.”
“The events create a positive cycle. The more that we raise means more projects supported and then the more people hear about the benefits to communities and nature and want to get involved or donate,” Mr Thomas added.
“Never underestimate the sheer goodwill and passion for the future that exists in the shooting community. I’m humbled by both the generosity of the donors offering some really diverse hunting, shooting and fishing and the enthusiasm to attend both events.
“This year BASC North has raised a record of over £30,000. That money will be spent on quality, tangible Young Shots and conservation projects in the region it’s raised. The donors can see great work on their doorsteps. I’m proud to be part of it. These events don’t just happen, it’s down to a massive amount of graft from our team and the extended BASC North volunteer network.”
A BASC game shooters evening will be held in Carlisle on the 12th October. Contact Mike.Thornley@basc.org.uk for further details.
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