Having not held a shoot on the farm for 4 years, the host was somewhat concerned as to what he could provide in terms of sport to his seven standing guns. No birds had been released, there were no game covers due to the dry summer of last year and very little feeding has been undertaken until the month before.
So, the only element that he could take control of was the hospitality. A good breakfast on arrival, then book the caterers to come in and do a top-notch lunch, and homemade fruit cake with a cup of tea before departure and provide nibbles with a glass of bubbly in the field. That was the plan to hopefully avoid embarrassment with the lack of game.
The day went surprisingly well with more game seen and shot than was expected, a total of just over 40 head and many more could have been bagged! It was a very old school day with everything legal on the list, so the bag ended up including rabbit, hare, pigeon, pheasant, woodcock, and goose. However, the best part was the company with everyone having a fantastic time with lots of banter, meeting old and new friends giving a great atmosphere.
So, at the end of the day the host suggested that if the guns had enjoyed themselves, as there was not a keeper to tip, the beaters had been paid by himself, would they be willing to make a small donation to the GCCT? A box was provided and to his amazement that evening, when emptying the box and counting the contents that included two envelopes given to the beaters it raised an amazing £528 including the gift aid for the GCCT.
How easy was that!! Perhaps your shoot might consider this kind act next season?
