BASC launches new deer stalking scheme in Northern Ireland
A new deer stalking scheme has been set up in Northern Ireland for members of the UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC).
The scheme, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, offers high quality accompanied foot and high-seat stalking over 10,000 acres of the prestigious Baronscourt Estate in County Tyrone. The scheme is open to BASC members holding the Deerstalking Certificate (DSC) Level 1 qualification.
The scheme is designed to provide practical follow-on experience for BASC members who have successfully completed the DSC Level 1. It will also help the Estate to manage its wild population of Sika deer.
Speaking at the launch of the scheme at the Baronscourt Estate, BASC NI director Tommy Mayne said: “Access to deer stalking in Northern Ireland has been very limited, so BASC is working in partnership with the Baronscourt Estate to offer this opportunity to our members.”
“BASC members can also take advantage of the estate’s excellent fishing and four-star self-catered accommodation, both of which will be available at a discount. This exclusive scheme is just a part of a much wider picture in terms of the benefits and opportunities on offer to BASC members.”
Speaking after the launch, Lord Hamilton said: “Baronscourt Estate is very pleased to be in partnership with BASC. BASC members get local, high quality deerstalking and the estate gains assistance with the management of our wild herd of Sika deer. Management of the herd is essential in order to reduce damage to the estate’s woodland and adjoining farmland and also for nature conservation, all of which suffer if deer numbers are not controlled.”
Mike Sherman, vice-chairman of BASC Council and chairman of the BASC deer stalking advisory committee said: “Deer stalking plays a vital role in the management and conservation of habitats and deer populations. We are pleased to announce this latest partnership with the Baronscourt Estate. Making such opportunities available to BASC members will benefit both them and the estate and adds to our existing deer stalking schemes.”
The scheme will also offer BASC members holding DSC level 1 the opportunity to complete their DSC level 2 portfolio using the Estate’s accredited witnesses. The scheme will run from 1 November 2014 through to the 28 February 2015 after which it is expected that the scheme will be open from 1 August until the end of February each year. BASC members can either use their own rifle or the estate rifle.
To register for the scheme please contact the BASC NI office on 028 92 60 50 50 or email nire@basc.org.uk
For details of BASC’s deer stalking schemes please visit the website www.basc.org.uk
For more information please call BASC NI on 028 92 60 50 50 or the BASC press office on 01244 573052
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