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.

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.

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)

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.

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. 

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.

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.

Tom discusses the start of the game seasons and attends a BASC shoot visit to understand more about the work underway across the regions.  

Tom explores how to encourage the next era of shooters into the fold, with GB Olympic Trap shooter Georgina Roberts and two-times English 10-meter Air Rifle Champion, Ruth Mwandumba.

Tom visits a BASC range day at the National Shooting Centre at Bisley to discuss the future of lead ammunition with experts, volunteers and members.

This episode delves into the political aspects of trophy hunting in Southern Africa, talking to community leaders in Namibia and Botswana on how UK and European legislation could undermine communities and conservation efforts in their countries.

This episode sees Tom undertake a series of audio recordings with the Calderdale Moorland Group as part of a new BASC campaign to bring the well-documented therapeutic benefits of birdsong indoors.

In this episode Tom ventures to the Eat Game Awards ceremony to celebrate and hear from the champions of wild game across the UK. 
Tom talks game with Adam Henson, Scott Rea, Chef Pascal and many more.

Tom discusses the latest news regarding the transition away from lead shot, the significant population of mountain hares in the Peak District and the future of our vital gamekeeping courses.

Tom joins a Young Shot event hosted by the Chichester Wildfowlers Association and BASC, to witness first-hand the resources being provided to the next generation of shooters.

Tom and BASC’s Dr Conor O’Gorman review 2021, discussing the organisation’s successes from overcoming Covid restrictions, to multiple legal victories.

This latest episode sees Tom interview Deputy Chief Constable Dave Orford on the topic of firearms licensing and BASC’s working relationship with the police.

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.

Tom heads out on a deer stalk in Hampshire with Martin Edwards, BASC’s head of deer management, to learn more about managing deer and BASC’s work on the subject.

In this latest episode of the BASC podcast, Tom speaks to two serving police officers and BASC’s Glynn Evans about the actions being taken to tackle the rural blight that is poaching.  

Tom discusses the topic of firearms licensing in the wake of the tragic Plymouth shooting and looks towards the start of the pheasant shooting season with part-time gamekeeper John Parker.

In this episode, Tom goes behind the scenes at The Game Fair to hear more about the new shooting partnership 'Aim to Sustain'.