I started shooting in my early 20s when a friend invited me to a farm shoot. I think from that moment I was hooked.

Shooting has introduced me to the most amazing group of people, sharing a common love of the countryside and, hopefully, the quarry we pursue. There is nothing better than the banter shared with a bunch of shooting mates.

Over the past 40 years, I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy most types of shooting, from the simple pleasures of a rough day walking the hedges to the thrill of stalking a red stag on the hill.

More recently I have taken a share in running a small shoot, enjoying the pleasure a day brings to Guns, beaters, pickers up alike – while experiencing some of the headaches faced by those who make a living from shooting.

Alongside my wife, I pick up with a team of Labradors, most of which we’ve bred ourselves. This gives me as much pleasure as carrying a gun.

In my work life, I’m a managing director of a business employing 300 people. I’ve learned the importance of setting clear goals and engaging with everyone in order to achieve all we’re capable of. Unless people understand the direction of travel and the part they play in it, they will never succeed and develop.

As part of this, I have involved myself in trying to shape our industry for the betterment of all involved, including the foundation of an All-Party Parliamentary Group to shape government policy.

Shooting faces a number of challenges, and it is critical we speak with one voice to represent the diverse interests of our community. Achieving this won’t be easy and will require flexibility on our part if we are to build a sustainable future for shooting and protecting all we hold dear. Simply standing our ground and harping back on the past will not ensure the continuation of shooting for future generations.

If elected, I want to combine my passion for our sport and love of the countryside with the leadership and motivational skills I have gained in business over many years.