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BASC has elected a new President at its Annual General Meeting, held today, 22 May, at Marford Mill.
The appointment marks the end of Lord Geoffrey Dear’s distinguished tenure as BASC President. Lord Dear, who was elected to the role in 2017, was thanked by Council and the membership for his exceptional service, dedication and advocacy on behalf of the association over the past eight years.
Duly elected to the role is the Marquess of Hamilton, who brings extensive experience in sustainable land use, deer management and wild food production, and has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to responsible shooting and conservation.
BASC Chairman Eoghan Cameron said: “We are deeply indebted to Lord Dear for his years of service to the association. His leadership and wisdom have guided BASC through a pivotal era. We warmly welcome the Marquess of Hamilton as our new President and look forward to the insight and stature he brings to the role at a critical time for our community.”
Alongside the presidential transition, Eoghan Cameron was re-elected as BASC Chairman, a mark of his outstanding contribution and leadership provided to the association since he was first elected in 2017.
The AGM saw Lydia Castellano elected to a national seat, and Dr Al Gabriel re-elected to the remaining national seat for a second term. Alan Morrow was elected to the Northern Ireland seat (uncontested).
Lydia Castellano said: “I’m delighted to be elected to BASC Council, and I look forward to working with such an experienced group of people. At a time of real political challenge to shooting, I’m excited to bring my experience to the table to help to promote sustainable shooting, conservation, and the rural way of life.”
Dr Al Gabriel said: “I am immensely proud to be re-elected and looking forward to serving our membership for the next five years. I particularly look forward to continuing our work in deer management and inclusion for women in shooting, working alongside other Council members, the BASC leadership team and staff to further progress in these areas.”
Alan Morrow said: “I’m honoured to have been elected to BASC Council representing Northern Ireland, following my time on the BASC Northern Ireland committee. I’m deeply committed to the promotion of best practice and sustainability, as well as navigating the complex challenges that face the future of shooting.”
Eoghan Cameron added: “Lydia and Alan join Council at a crucial moment for shooting and conservation. Alongside Al Gabriel, who I am delighted to see re-elected to Council for a second term, their skills, knowledge and commitment to the values of BASC will be key as we continue to defend and promote sustainable shooting for future generations.
“It is also an honour to have been re-elected as BASC chairman. I’m grateful for the continued trust placed in me by Council and our members, and I remain fully committed to leading BASC with integrity, energy, and purpose in the months and years ahead.”
Find out more about the association’s leadership and BASC Council here.
Do you, or someone you know, have the passion and skills to make a real difference to shooting and conservation? Put yourself forward for election to BASC Council today.
BASC’s AGM took place on 18 May and saw two BASC members elected to our governing Council.
Two new members have been elected to BASC Council, with the results formally announced during the Association’s AGM.
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