The annual Charity Clay Shoot at Warter Priory Estate in East Yorkshire has raised an incredible £135,000 for the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust. The money will go towards the vital scientific research carried out by the GWCT to enhance the British countryside for public benefit.
More than 80 teams – over 600 people – attended over two days, to enjoy clay pigeon shooting over a range of challenging simulated targets set by Warter Priory Head Keeper Frank Croft. A champagne reception and lunch were followed by prize-giving to the winning teams, generously sponsored by Carter’s Countrywear, Croots, John Naylor artist, Teague Chokes and Browning. An auction by Scott Ruck raised more than £61,000.
The festivities were rounded off with the Bushbeater’s Ball on the evening of Saturday 21 May, masterminded by Dorothy Brighton.
She says: “We had three really good days. The ball was brilliant, and all the guests really enjoyed themselves.”
The GWCT regional organiser for the North-East of England, Sophie Dingwall, says: “The GWCT is immensely grateful for this incredibly generous donation from Warter Priory, which will go a long way to supporting the scientists that carry out the invaluable work that underpins the credibility of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust and the future of our countryside”.
Sophie adds: “A big thank you to everyone involved at Warter Priory and to all those who supported the clay shoot and Bushbeater’s Ball, including headline sponsor GSC Grays and stand sponsors Hull Cartridge Ltd, Wilfred Scrutons Ltd, McClarrons.”
Meanwhile, the 4th Wykeham Charity Clay Shoot held on 26 May this year raised more than £50,000 with the proceeds being split between Ryedale Special Families, the GWCT and Scarborough & Ryedale Mountain Rescue.
Hosted in the grounds of Wykeham Abbey and with shooting taking place across the estate, the clay shoot saw 40 teams take part. The shooting was followed by a champagne reception and lunch and an auction of varied lots, which along with the generous support of several event sponsors, was a major contributor to the amount raised. Amanda Owen, Yorkshire Shepherdess, author, TV presenter and Patron of Ryedale Special Families attended the event and drew the raffle after lunch.
Lisa Keenan, Chief Officer of Ryedale Special Families says: “We were delighted to benefit from the Wykeham Charity Clay Day in May. It really is a substantial amount raised and will go toward our new building fund which will provide an amazing resource for families of disabled children.”