“Informative and entertaining” talks coming to a town near you

The future of our environment, wildlife and farms are headline news, but what does that mean for the British countryside? That’s one of the issues experts from the Game & Wildlife Trust (GWCT) will be discussing when they visit seven towns and cities this spring.

These informal talks have been running for three years and have been 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.

Andrew Gilruth, director of communications at the GWCT, will be leading the talks. 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 you are encouraged to book in advance at www.gwct.org.uk/roadshows

The first roadshow takes place on Wednesday 11 March at the Dower House and Spa in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, before trips to Derbyshire, Surrey, Somerset, London, Gloucestershire and Hertfordshire. A further series of events is planned for the autumn.  

Here is a list of the roadshows in full:

• Wednesday 11 March - North Yorkshire - Dower House & Spa, Bond End, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 9AL
  
• Thursday 12 March - Derbyshire - Brampton Manor, Old Road, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 3QR
  
• Tuesday 24 March - Surrey - The Castle Inn, Castle Street, Farnham, GU9 7HR
  
• Tuesday 31 March - Somerset - The Corner House Hotel, Park Street, Taunton, TA1 4DQ
  
• Thursday 2 April - London - The Rochester Hotel, Vincent Square, London, SW1P 2PA
  
• Wednesday 6 May - Gloucestershire - The Fleece, Market Place, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2NZ
  
• Thursday 14 May - Hertfordshire - Banyers House, Melbourn Street, Royston, SG8 7BZ