We have some wonderful characters who dedicate their careers to Scottish Rivers and preserving the flora and fauna in and around the rivers and riverbanks, particularly world-renowned Scottish salmon. They have extensive knowledge and experience and take great pride in providing salmon fishing and memories of a lifetime for the guests who enjoy their fly fishing. The late Lionel Main, head ghillie on the Castle Grant Estate 1985 – 2022, was one of these well-known, well-respected characters.
The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust (GWT) is honouring Lionel’s memory by launching an award along the lines of our annual GWT Young Gamekeeper, but for Young Ghillies. The Gold Grilse Ghillie Award will recognise the enormous contribution and dedication ghillies’ families make in providing and preserving the Scottish rivers for salmon fishing and much more.
GWT is looking for young people in two age categories (up to 11 years, and 11 – 16 years) who go above and beyond helping out generally, delivering conservation work, or something else which stands out of the ordinary. They will be the children of, or be closely associated with, the River Ghillies, Boatmen or River Managers of the Scottish rivers.
The inaugural Gold Grilse Ghillie Award will be presented at Moy Country Fair on 4 August 2023. Nominations should be sent by email to enquiries@thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com, or post to The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust, Keepers House, Tanfield Lodge, West Tanfield, Ripon, HG4 5LE by 31 July.
Notes for Editors
Image: Lionel Main and guest
GWT was established in 1992 to support gamekeepers, stalkers, ghillies and their dependants past and present. An overview of GWT’s work in support, finance, housing and employment with these professions can be found here.
Contact:
Ruth Kerr – Communications communications@thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com
Helen MJ Benson – Chief Executive enquirgreater jies@thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com 01677 470180