Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast BASC

A major call for evidence is underway and the voice of shooting needs to be heard.

With Defra gathering evidence on game shooting, this special episode looks at what’s being considered, why it matters and crucially how everyone connected to shooting can make their voice heard before the 1st November deadline.

BASC’s Michelle Nudds explains what’s at stake and why first hand experiences matter, gundog trainer Ben Randall joins us after his call to action video went viral and England international rugby player Ollie Sleightholme talks shooting, stalking, the people he’s met along the way and why he’s lending his support.

LINKS:

BASC’s online email tool:
https://basc.org.uk/thevoiceofshooting/

Defra’s official online questionnaire:
https://consultations.defra.gov.uk/call-for-evidence-on-gamebird-release-shooting-and-welfare-during-rearing-in-england/survey

Send evidence by post:
A printed or handwritten letter to - Defra, Gamebirds call for evidence, Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DF

As wildfowlers return to the foreshore for another season, we explore the passion for wildfowling and the work being done to protect its future.

BASC's Head of Wildfowl and Wetlands, James Green, discusses the organisation's wildfowling roots, the latest on consenting and the Schedule 2 review, sustainable shooting and how the permit scheme is opening up opportunities to experience the sport. He also takes us behind the scenes of a new documentary telling the story of wildfowlers and their relationship with the places they help look after.

On the Ribble, Chris Kelly of Preston and District Wildfowlers Association shares some remarkable examples of conservation in action, including creating rabbit warrens for nesting shelduck.

Wildlife artist Chris Lodge reveals the inspiration behind 'Wigeon on the Ribble', this year's BASC Wildlife Fund stamp and how one very special bird, ‘Blue 88’, became part of the story. 

If you haven't purchased your stamp yet, you can do so through the BASC Wildlife Fund website.

https://bascwildlifefund.co.uk/

What happens on a moor, who looks after it and why are thousands of schoolchildren brought here every year?

Tom Evans heads to the Yorkshire Moors for Let's Learn Moor,  a unique day where classrooms are swapped for hands-on experiences.

Meeting gamekeepers, mountain rescuers, gun dog trainers, dry stone wallers and conservationists, Tom discovers how one day outdoors is helping inspire the next generation to understand and value Britain's uplands.

Tom looks ahead to this year's event at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire (24–26 July), exploring what's new, why The Game Fair continues to thrive nearly 70 years after it first began and what visitors can expect across this three-day celebration of the countryside.

Joining us is James Gower, CEO of The Game Fair, who takes us behind the scenes, revealing what it takes to keep the show evolving while staying true to its roots.

Dick and Angel Strawbridge (Escape to the Chateau), who discuss countryside life, family cooking and the story behind this year's rabbit recipe.

Finally, Lewis Thornley, BASC's central director, talks us through the great member benefits and why The Game Fair remains such an important event for the countryside community.

What really happens once the shooting season comes to an end? 

In this episode we explore the work, planning and countryside management that continues long after the final day in the field.

Guests include BASC's deputy director of shooting and operations, Terry Behan and Paul Childerley from Childerley Sporting, who discuss the realities of the off-season, from habitat conservation and shoot preparation, to deer management, sustainability and the growing interest in food provenance.

This episode shines a light on the relentless work that keeps the countryside moving long after the shooting stops.

Recorded at The Stalking Show, this episode features BASC’s chief executive, Ian Bell, discussing DEFRA’s England Deer Impact Policy Statement. While there is broad support for improving deer management, Ian raises concerns about potential barriers, particularly around proposed mandatory training.

We also explore the future of deer management, including BASC’s new flexible DSC1 online course designed to widen access to training, and the urgent need to bring through the next generation, as the average age of deer stalkers continues to rise.

What does it take to go from good...to Olympic champion?

In this episode of the BASC Podcast, we explore the world of competitive clay shooting, from grassroots participation to the Olympic stage.
Nathan Hales relives his gold medal winning performance at Paris 2024 and the focus required to deliver under pressure.
Leading down-the-line shooter Sarah Milroy shares how she found the sport and what keeps her striving to improve.
We also hear from BASC’s engagement manager for Wales, David Boden, on how more people are discovering clay shooting and what’s being done to make the sport more accessible than ever.

For shoots nationwide, the end of the season marks the start of some of the most crucial planning.

This episode explores the journey of wild game from the field to the table and the decisions that need to be made now to ensure a smooth season ahead.

We explore the practical considerations of where your game will go, how it’s processed and the infrastructure, compliance and forward planning needed to make it all work. 

Whether you’re thinking about expanding distribution, connecting more with your local community, or taking greater control of where your game ends up, now is the time to plan.

We’ll also highlight how excellence across the entire supply chain is celebrated through the Eat Game Awards, which showcase the people and businesses championing British wild game. 

The Wild Game Guide

This episode is your end of season reset. We’re talking gun care, why it matters, what’s often overlooked and how a bit of attention now can protect your shotgun or rifle for years to come. 

Whether your gun’s been out every weekend or sitting quietly in the cabinet, proper maintenance makes all the difference when next season rolls around.

Our guests include...

BASCs south east regional officer, Fliss Winters, highlighting how gun maintenance fits into the wider routine of a shooting day.

BASC's Central regional director, Lewis Thornley, shares practical advice on maintaining the accuracy-critical areas of a rifle.

Darren Hartshorne from Midcounties Blacking shares behind the scenes stories from the workshop, showing how neglect can lead to serious problems.

In this episode we explore the reality of crime in the countryside, from poaching and hare coursing to the theft of agricultural vehicles and machinery. We hear directly from the people dealing with these offences day in day out and find out how policing is adapting to meet the challenge.

Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly, head of the UK’s National Wildlife Crime Unit, explains how modern poaching has evolved, why hare coursing is now treated as organised crime and how new legislation is starting to deliver real results.

We’re also joined by Andy Huddleston, who leads the National Rural Crime Unit, to discuss the growing threat of rural and agricultural theft and what farmers and rural workers can do to protect themselves.

Plus, Tom heads out on patrol with Sergeant Paul Brady from the Rural Engagement Team at Essex Police, to see first hand how rural crime is policed on the front line.

And finally, we catch up with BASC’s head of game and wildlife management, Glynn Evans, following his recent lifetime achievement award for his long standing work tackling wildlife crime.

A rare behind the scenes look at the people, partnerships and policing keeping the countryside safe.

Step behind the scenes of a shoot day as we explore the world of beating.

Beating is far more than simply walking through cover, it’s a finely tuned system where people and dogs work together to try to flush the birds towards the guns, all rooted in generations of countryside knowledge.

In this episode, Tom joins the beating line to experience that rhythm firsthand. From early-morning preparation to dogs weaving through thick bramble, to the teamwork that keeps everything running smoothly, he gets a true ground-level view of what happens out in the field.

All of it takes place on the Norfolk Estate in the historic Sussex Downs, the perfect setting to explore the craft, camaraderie and culture behind a successful shoot day.

In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the fast-moving world of optics, from binoculars and rifle scopes to thermal spotters, night-vision and drone technology. Whether you’re shooting, stalking, or surveying wildlife, understanding what those numbers, magnifications and features actually mean can make all the difference.

Joining us are three guests who bring their own expert perspectives:

• Lewis Thornley, BASC’s central regional director, on how to choose the right optics for your needs and make the most of them in the field.
  
  
• Paul Hodson from HIKMICRO, sharing expert insight into the latest thermal and night-vision technology, what’s new, what’s next and how it’s reshaping fieldcraft.
  
  
• Ben Harrower from BH Wildlife Consultancy, who’s using drones and aerial imaging to support conservation and wildlife monitoring, revealing how new innovations could transform deer management.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of gundog breeds, their traits, their roles and what makes each one unique. From the field to the fireside, these dogs are not only skilled working partners but also loyal companions.

We’ll be focusing on the core gundog types, Retrievers, Spaniels, Pointers & Setters and HPRs (Hunt, Point, Retrieve). 

With the help of our expert guests, we’ll take a tour through each breed, exploring their strengths, working styles and the qualities that make them such reliable partners for handlers.

Guests & Timestamps:

• Natasha Surtees — Retrievers (1:30)
  
  
• Richard MacNicol — Pointers & Setters (11:45)
  
  
• John Bailey — Spaniels (22:15)
  
  
• Jim Bird — HPR (Hunt, Point & Retrieve) (34:00)
  
  
• Glynn Evans (BASC) - Head of Game and Wildlife Management (46:50)

In this episode, we venture into the countryside after dark to uncover the vital role night shooting plays in wildlife management and conservation. We explore safety, legal considerations and the essential equipment used by those working in the field.

James Sutcliffe, BASC’s deer and woodland advisor, breaks down why night shooting is important and guides us through the code of practice. Stuart Llewelyn, a volunteer dedicated to fox control, explains how targeted night shooting helps protect vulnerable curlew populations and Helen Jenning, optics expert and experienced night shooter from Rural Sports, highlights how technology and equipment have evolved to make night shooting safer and more effective. 

As the grouse season gets underway, we’re diving into the people, politics and partnerships that keep the moorlands alive and thriving. 
In this episode, we explore why the grouse season matters, not just for sport but for conservation, community and the rural economy.

We begin with BASC’s head of uplands, Alex Farrell, who offers a clear-eyed view of the current political landscape and what lies ahead for upland shooting.
Then we hear from Martin Quinn, an all-round field sportsman and seasoned picker-upper, as he walks us through a day on the moors, working his dogs and sharing the often-unseen camaraderie that powers every shoot day.
To finish, we chat with conservationist and author Ian Coghill, who explains why he sees grouse moor management as one of the UK’s real conservation success stories.

In this episode we’re stepping outside and firing up the grill to explore why BBQs are one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to cook and share game meat. From its bold flavour to the simplicity of outdoor cooking, we look at why grilling over a flame is such a natural fit for wild food.

We’ll be showcasing just how versatile game meat can be on the BBQ, with venison taking centre stage. Our guests share some practical tips to help you get started and reveal some crowd-pleasing recipes.

We’ll also take a quick trip around the world to see how different cultures cook with wild ingredients and why game meat is not just delicious but  seriously sustainable.

This episode comes to you straight from the heart of the action at the 5 Regions Charity Working Test, a special event where handlers and their brilliant Spaniels gather not just to compete, but to raise awareness for a vital cause, mental health in the countryside.

Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and wildlife management, joins us to break down the key differences between Gundog Scurries, Working Tests, and Field Trials, and explains what each discipline offers for handlers at every level of experience.

It was a fantastic day filled with an incredible mix of people, from passionate first-time handlers to seasoned international competitors. A perfect introduction to the exciting and rewarding world of gundog competition.

In this episode, we're shining a spotlight on the world of competitive clay shooting. BASC has a long-standing commitment to the sport at every level, from helping newcomers take their first shot at a game fair to supporting elite athletes chasing Olympic dreams.

We’re joined by three fantastic guests, each offering their own unique perspective:

Richard Fussell – Training & Education Officer at BASC, who works with everyone from complete beginners to Olympic-level competitors.
Anita North – Former England athlete and now British Shooting coach, passionate about developing young talent and increasing representation in the sport.
Bethany Norton – Rising star and BASC Legacy Sponsorship recipient, recently selected for British Shooting’s World Class Programme with her sights firmly set on LA 2028.

In this episode, we explore the growing presence of women in shooting and how BASC’s Women in Shooting initiative is driving change. However, while progress has been made, challenges remain in making field sports more inclusive.

We discuss how to inspire the next generation, the barriers women still face, and how the UK compares to other countries in supporting female shooters.

Ever wondered how to get started in deer stalking or take your skills to the next level? In this episode, we’re breaking down the training, education, and opportunities BASC offers to help you on your journey.

Tom talks to a range of guests, covering:
Training courses – From PreDSC1 for beginners to DSC2, plus specialised courses in carcass handling and butchery.
Progression pathways – How mentorship programs, stalking schemes, and hands-on training can help you gain experience.
Opportunities for stalkers – Learn about BASC’s Register of Competent Deer Stalkers and how it can benefit you.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your expertise, this episode has something for everyone interested in ethical and effective deer management.

On this episode we discuss the Government’s increase in gun licensing fees, a rise averaging 133% that could have a significant impact on shooting and rural livelihoods.
So, what’s the reasoning behind this decision? And what does it mean for those who rely on shooting for work, conservation, and sport?
We hear from Christopher Graffius, BASC’s executive director of communications & public affairs and Martin Parker, BASC’s head of firearms.

Join us as we explore how citizen science supports conservation, from tracking wildlife to protecting habitats. Discover how BASC uses this data and learn simple ways you can get involved to make a difference in the future of shooting and conservation.

In this episode, we delve into the world of shooting and its diverse disciplines, uncovering why it’s more than just a pastime. From the thrill of the challenge to the camaraderie in the field and the appeal of sustainable, ethical food, we explore what makes this timeless pursuit so captivating for people from all walks of life.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible work of the BASC Wildlife Fund, exploring how it supports and safeguards the UK’s wildlife and natural habitats. Join us as we discuss the fund's mission, notable conservation projects, and the innovative ways it helps to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainable land management.

Tom visits the Norfolk Estate in West Sussex to spend time with head gamekeeper Charlie Mellor. Charlie offers a rare glimpse into the world of wildlife management and conservation. From sunrise to sunset, we explore the responsibilities, challenges and rewards that come with protecting both game and the environment.

As the 2024 wildfowling season gets underway, we bring you an in-depth discussion packed with expert insights to help you prepare. 

Guests include seasoned wildfowling experts, conservationists and scientists, all leaders in their field, with the conversation ranging from the perfect wildfowling day out, to BASC's new Sustainable Shooting Code of Practice for Wildfowl Quarry Species.

See the code here:
https://basc.org.uk/wildfowling/advice/sustainable-shooting-code-of-practice/

In this episode Tom travels to the Game Fair to celebrate our hardworking gundogs.
Amongst the skilful displays of obedience and agility, we hear from handlers and trainers, as well as the less experienced participants of the legendary BASC gundog scurries.

In this special podcast focused on the general election, Tom speaks to BASC’s political teams from England, Scotland and Wales. BASC’s executive director of communications and political affairs Christopher Graffius explains how you can help safeguard the future of shooting and conservation by contacting your parliamentary candidates.

In this episode we dive into the world of pigeon shooting.
We have a great selection of guests to help guide you through the ins and outs of pigeon shooting as a discipline, whilst also discussing gear recommendations, and stories from the field.
Whether you're a seasoned shooter aiming to perfect your technique or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes, this podcast is your source of expert advice, practical tips, and the latest strategies to elevate your pigeon shooting game.

In this episode we find ourselves at the Staffordshire County Showground for The Stalking Show 2024.
A weekend dedicated to those who hunt, stalk and have a passion for the great outdoors.
It is one of the most focused show events in the UK, purely for deer stalkers and hunters, so no better place for Tom to discuss deer numbers, management schemes and explore the day to day challenges faced by our deer stalkers.

Tom brings us all the action from day 2 of Crufts 2024 - Gundog day.

BASC has a long history at Crufts and runs the renowned Gamekeepers’ Ring at the show, celebrating the best working gundogs in the country.
As well as breed classes for working dogs and gamekeepers’ dogs, BASC classes include gamekeeper teams and working gundog teams, plus the ever-popular young handler classes where youngsters get their chance to show dogs that have worked throughout the season. 

Whether you’re competing or spectating, Crufts is the pinnacle of the dog show world, a fantastic day out and a wonderful opportunity to see our working gundogs in the spotlight.

This month we explore one of the most popular sports in the UK, airgun shooting.

Former shooting champion, BASC’s very own Richard Fussell, talks us through the allure of airgunning and why it proves to be the perfect introduction for young people into the sport. 
We also hear from the team at BSA Guns who lift the curtain on what it takes to design and manufacture their market leading rifles.

Plus, the ‘UK natural capital accounts report’ is out. BASC’s Ian Danby updates us on this crucial data designed to measure the financial and societal value of natural resources to people in the UK.

Tom heads to Kent to explore how thoughtful shoot management plays a big part in creating a healthy woodland. 
With the help of gamekeeper Adam Horn, we learn how sustainable shooting provides huge benefits to the ecosystem as a whole.

For this special episode, Tom travels to BASC head office to explore how the firearms team help foster and develop strong relationships with the various government agencies and how they ensure the police are working as efficiently as possible.
We also hear from Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, Marc Jones, who comments on the frustrations BASC members face when applying or renewing their license.

Our December podcast includes The Big Christmas Countryside Quiz,  how to improve your festive menu, traditions of the Boxing Day shoot and a thank you to our amazing BASC volunteers.

Tom visits The Gloucestershire Wildfowling and Conservation Association and tries his luck on an evening flight.
Plus a brief round-up of all the most important stories from BASC.

All the latest news from BASC, including NRW's decision to halt plans to license the release of gamebirds in Wales.

BASC food ambassador Rachel Green with some creative options for your shoot lunch,  and Tom visits the clay shooting line at the game fair.

Join Tom in the Peak District as he discovers how a grouse moor day is put together.
Also updates on United Utilities, as well as the Hen Harriers brood management project.

Tom catches up with some colleagues at the Game Fair and discusses the ongoing Home Office firearms licensing consultation.

The latest episode of BASC’s official podcast includes the latest news regarding Defra’s eleventh hour changes to the licensing system for releasing gamebirds on certain protected sites, and covers the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill in detail, hearing from those who are at the centre of BASC’s work.

The latest BASC podcast episode has Tom speaking to various BASC staff from around the UK on their work, events and membership benefits on the ground. 
From planning shows, training and educational events, to firearms and membership enquiries, this episode showcases the breadth of BASC’s work and reach.

Tom speaks to businesses and individuals that will be impacted by the NRW proposals and Conor reminds listeners on how to respond to the consultation.

BASC’s Steve Griffiths and Conor O’Gorman discuss the Welsh government’s proposal to licence all gamebird releasing and the BASC Act Now campaign which is opposing the plans.

With the warmer months fast approching, Tom talks to Julia Knight, Lyme disease campaigner, about tick bite prevention and the lack of knowledge amongst the general public and medical profession.

Also BASC's deer advisor, James Sutcliffe, on dealing with ticks in the field.

BASC’s head of wildfowling James Green looks back on an eventful season, talks about wildfowling’s conservation objectives and how to get involved.

Listen back to the best of 2022. 
Highlights include Countryfile's Adam Henson, a trip to the National Shooting Centre at Bisley and Bill Harriman on theThe Antiques Roadshow.

Tom discusses firearms licensing with the MET's firearms licensing manager Inspector Chris Downs, as well as BASC’s Martin Parker.

Tom talks to Dr Marnie Lovejoy about BASC policy on woodcock shooting, Defra’s upcoming review of quarry species and why conservation listings don’t always work.

BASC’s Bill Harriman talks to Tom about his love of antique firearms and his best anecdotes from 30 years’ worth of appearances on Antiques Roadshow.