Wildlife talk at Dower House

That’s one of the issues experts from the Game and Wildlife Trust (GWCT) will be discussing when it visits Knaresborough.

The GWCT team will be at Dower House and Spa, Bond End, on Wednesday, March 11.

These informal talks have been running for three years and have proved popular with countryside enthusiasts, farmers, birdwatchers and members of the public eager to learn more about rural affairs.

For just £10, attendees enjoy a two-hour talk, tea and coffee and the chance to find out more about the issues that matter to them.

Feedback from previous guests has been extremely positive, ranging from comments on the “informative and entertaining” nature of the talks to one saying how it had changed the way he would view the countryside forever.

The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s.

It advises farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats.

The trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.

Andrew Gilruth, director of communications at the GWCT, will be leading the talk. He said: “The way the countryside is managed is being challenged more than most people might appreciate.

This year we have already seen the wildfires in Australia used to question actions of those managing the British uplands and a national newspaper running an article calling for the end of farming.

“It’s important for people to stay informed, and we’re going out to meet as many people – not only to tell them about our work, but to answer their questions. It’s a great feeling to see someone leave with a more complete understanding about what is happening around them”.

Andrew will be joined by advisory staff wherever possible, adding further practical insight and giving their view on the issues facing those managing the countryside.

There are just 30 places at each event, so people are encouraged to book in advance at www.gwct.org.uk/roadshows