November

Following news of an outbreak in Kent yesterday, a second case of avian influenza has been confirmed. There are some simple measures that all poultry and gamebird keepers, whether they are running a large commercial farm, keeping a few hens in their back garden, or rearing game birds, should take to protect their birds against the threat of avian flu.

It would appear the legal team at Defra are the real winners – they have avoided costly legal action and significant disruption to those providing the habitat that game management delivers.

With the lead ban becoming more and more apparent, W Horton & Sons have been working hard on a solution to the problem imposed on so many shots who own guns that are not steel proofed.

Without our usual fundraising activity, we are facing a £1.4m shortfall in our usual income across the year. Thankfully, you, our members and supporters, give us hope. We have been overwhelmed by your generosity at a difficult time for everyone.