Let’s Learn Moor leaves lasting impression on MP

A visit to the UK’s largest uplands classroom bolstered Labour MP Sam Rushworth’s knowledge of moorland management which he incorporated into an impassioned speech he delivered during a Westminster Hall debate on grouse shooting.

Dr Rushworth was one of 11 MPs from across the political spectrum who spoke against a ban on driven grouse shooting during the debate.

The Bishop Auckland MP had attended an event at the Raby Estate in County Durham with primary school children from his constituency days before the debate as part of this year’s Let’s Learn Moor event.

Wonderful to see

He said: “It was wonderful to see children out in nature, learning about the importance of conserving the land and red-listed birds that live here. They also enjoyed seeing a goat get milked and holding a fire hose as they learned about the dangers of moorland fires and importance of the Countryside Code.”

Dr Rushworth told the debate on Monday that if grouse shooting was banned, “…we would lose the jobs, we would lose the schools and we would lose the wildlife.”

A lasting impression

BASC head of uplands Alex Farrell accompanied Dr Rushworth on his moorland visit. He said: “The visit clearly made a lasting impression as evidenced by Mr Rushworth’s input at the debate. We are grateful he took the time to come along to the event and see for himself the wonderful work that goes on as part of this unrivalled learning experience for children. Once again this was a really well hosted event by the Raby team and it has been a pleasure to work alongside them and the regional moorland groups and others to pull this together.”

Joe Robinson, land agent at Raby Estates, said: “The Let’s Learn Moor initiative is an engaging and hands-on experience for children to discover more about the uplands. This is the fourth year Raby Estates has been involved, using some of our beautiful moorland as an ideal setting for the outdoor classroom with our expert gamekeepers also participating to provide insight into moorland management and predator control as well as the deer species on the estate. We’re looking forward to taking part once again next year.”

Collaboration is key

 Let’s Learn Moor is a collaborative educational project which is overseen by BASC and Countryside Learning and made possible by accessing BASC’s legacy fund. Events are facilitated by the Regional Moorland Groups and private estates across northern England with the support of more than 50 other partners.

ENDS