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Search for caring countryside manager
A search has been launched across the South West to find people who have given their lives to managing and caring for the countryside and the traditional sports which provide the incentive for a raft of rural management programmes.
The CLA, the rural economy experts, is now looking to provide public recognition for the tireless efforts of the people who look after the one of the nation's most cherished assets - the countryside - through its Long Service awards for gamekeepers, river keepers and ghillies - people the CLA describes as: "The unsung heroes of the countryside."
At the same time, nominations are being sought for the CLA Game Fair Gamekeeper of the Year 2008.
To qualify for the CLA Long Service Awards, gamekeepers must have clocked up at least 40 years service on not more than five estates while river keepers and ghillies must have dedicated at least 25 years to looking after the same river system. Keepers who have completed 50 and 60 years can be nominated for an additional bar to their medal.
The awards are presented annually at The CLA Game Fair which this year returns to Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire from Friday 25th - Sunday 27th July to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The Gamekeeper of the Year Award is open to all full and part-time employed gamekeepers in the UK. All nominees are expected to work to high standards and follow the Code of Good Shooting Practice. Prizes for this award include £400 cash for the winner and £150 for each of the two runners-up, plus an engraved hip flask each, tickets for The CLA Game Fair, lunch in the Member's Enclosure, overnight accommodation for two and dinner with the other finalists.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: "Public recognition of the work these traditional craftsmen do in caring for the countryside, woodlands, rivers and streams is pretty rare - but in areas where wildlife is abundant, where habitat is healthy and diverse and where nature truly is in balance, the one consistent factor is a good gamekeeper. The CLA Game Fair presents a unique opportunity for everybody who cares about the countryside to say a public "thank you" to the people who have give their working life to it."
Further details on the CLA Long Service Awards and how to nominate an individual can be obtained from The CLA Game Fair office, PO box 6452, Basingstoke, Hants, RG25 2XQ or email: gamefair@cla.org.uk
9:53am Monday 21st April 2008
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