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Politics in the wild: MP visits shooting estate to see conservation up close
BASC regional officer, Ryan Darby, welcomed James Wild MP to a leading Norfolk estate to see the vital role that shooting plays in conservation, land management and the rural economy.
In February, I welcomed James Wild, Conservative MP for North West Norfolk, to the historic Le Strange Estate in Hunstanton. As BASC’s regional officer, I’m always keen to demonstrate how estates like Le Strange are balancing tradition with sustainability. This visit was the perfect opportunity to do just that.
James was given a tour of the estate by Charles Le Strange Meakin, whose family has managed the land for over 1,000 years. Accompanied by gamekeeper Gareth Maund, we walked through The Downs, one of Norfolk’s most distinctive landscapes.
As we walked, we discussed the essential work that responsible gamekeeping contributes to biodiversity. This was underlined when a flock of pink-footed geese took flight from the sugar beet fields. It was an unforgettable sight and a real testament to the estate’s habitat management efforts.
Shooting’s contribution to conservation
A highlight of the visit was the opportunity for James to experience the estate’s state-of-the-art simulated shooting arena, where he tried clay shooting using biodegradable clays and sustainable ammunition.
At the shoot lodge, we sat down to discuss the wider impact of shooting. BASC represents 150,000 members across the UK, with more than 1,000 in James’s constituency alone. We work tirelessly to highlight how shooting contributes not just to recreation, but also to conservation and the economy.
We talked about the year-round habitat management undertaken by gamekeepers, how shooting estates create jobs and attract international tourism, and the importance of preserving traditional countryside pursuits in a sustainable way.
Restoring wetlands and creating habitats
It was clear that James appreciated the balance the estate has struck between conservation and rural enterprise. He recognised the estate’s efforts in restoring wetlands and creating habitats that support red-listed species such as spoonbills and curlews. It was proof that shooting and conservation go hand in hand when managed responsibly.
Afterwards, James said: “It was fascinating to see first-hand how the Le Strange Estate is combining conservation with rural traditions. Their commitment to biodiversity, responsible land stewardship and sustainable gamekeeping demonstrates how the environment and the local economy can thrive together.”
The importance of engaging with policymakers
For me, this visit reinforced the importance of engaging with policymakers and demonstrating the real on-the-ground benefits of shooting. Such conversations are essential to ensure that sustainable shooting remains a key part of the countryside’s future.
We will continue to work alongside estates like Le Strange to champion sustainable land management and educate decision-makers on the positive impact of shooting. Days like this prove just how vital it is to share our work with those shaping rural policy. Seeing it in action makes all the difference.
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Ryan Darby
BASC Eastern regional officer
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