CLA launches search for guardians of the rural North

CLA - Country Land and Business Association Limited logo

The CLA is launching a search to reward the unsung heroes responsible for maintaining some of the North’s most iconic rural landscapes.

The CLA Long Service Awards are a long-standing feature of The CLA Game Fair, which returns to Harewood House near Leeds this summer after a 12 year absence.

The awards provide an annual opportunity to recognise the small band of people who have dedicated their lives to the countryside. They are presented to gamekeepers who have clocked up at least 40 years service on not more than five estates, and provide public recognition of their service to the countryside.

CLA North Regional Director Dorothy Fairburn said: “Our region boasts some of the country’s most spectacular rural landscapes, much of which is underpinned by the work of gamekeepers, yet public recognition of this is rare.

“Modern gamekeepers need to have environmental and ecological skills and a good understanding of modern technology as well as a deep-rooted understanding of the countryside and its wildlife.

“The 2015 CLA Game Fair will be a great opportunity to say a public thank you to the people who care for the rural North in front of a home crowd.”

The presentations will take place on the first day of the CLA Game Fair, which runs from Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August. It is the largest of its kind in Europe and is expected to attract more than 140,000 people, generating more than £30million for the regional and wider rural economy.

Potential candidates for the awards must be nominated by an employer. Further details and how to nominate an individual can be obtained from Bex Welti on: 0207 2019522 or by email to: bex.welti@cla.org.uk