David Davies MP has visited a clay shoot in his Monmouth constituency and praised shooting for its contribution to rural life.
Mr Davies visited Keepers Lodge Clay Shoot, between Monmouth and Chepstow, for a shooting lesson with BASC-accredited shotgun coach Davie Smeaton.
A clay shoot is run at the ground on alternate Sundays.
Mr Davies said: “I was delighted to visit Keepers Lodge Clay Shoot and have a lesson from an accredited BASC coach, and managed to hit a few clays.
“Shooting plays a key role in rural life in a number of ways. The fortnightly clay shoot is clearly a very sociable occasion with around 80 people attending regularly. The economic benefits of shooting are also clear, with shooting being worth 2,400 jobs and £75 million to the Welsh economy, a significant part of shooting’s £2 billion contribution to the UK economy.”
“This business is also a good example of diversification for a farming business, and a great way of bringing money into this rural area. I welcome the British Association for Shooting and Conservation’s efforts in supporting such businesses.”
He added: “As the game shooting seasons have started, many people will be going out to enjoy shooting in Monmouthshire and South Wales. I fully support shooting sports and recognise its economic and conservation value to the rural economy.”
Owner Clive Prichard said: “Our shoot is part of a dairy farm which has 200 cows. People come and shoot from a wide area – including Chepstow, the Forest of Dean, Newport and Bristol. Fifty clays and cartridges with safety equipment costs £14 for non-members.”
For more information visit http://www.keeperslodgeclayshoot.com/
Contact Rob Prichard on 07969 995619 for more information and bookings.
ENDS
For more information contact the BASC press office on 01244 573052.
