The Gamekeepers' Welfare Trust Podcast

A candid conversation about predation control, protecting livestock, and the deep-rooted tensions surrounding these topics in today's rural landscape.Owen and Linda dig into the tribalism and combative attitudes that often derail constructive debate, exploring why these conversations can become so charged, and why that's getting in the way of real progress. They trace the long history of humans protecting their food supplies, reflecting on just how far removed much of modern society has become from the realities of food production and land management.The discussion turns to policy, and the dangers of broad-brush approaches that fail to account for the nuance of working land. Owen makes a compelling case for the knowledge held by those on the ground: gamekeepers, farmers, rural workers, arguing that site-specific expertise should carry far greater weight in shaping decisions that directly affect their livelihoods and landscapes.

In this episode, Linda Mellor is joined by Audrey Watson, whose career has spanned roles as a Countryside Ranger, Ecological Adviser, Forester, Deer Officer for BASC, and Area Wildlife Manager.A recent move to the Isle of Mull, Audrey talks about island life, local wildlife on her doorstep, and adapting to open hill stalking and longer-range shooting. The conversation also reflects on loss following the death of her husband, Peter, who introduced her to shooting and deer stalking. Together, they shot and stalked across the UK and hunted worldwide.Now settled on Mull with her four dogs, Audrey shares thoughts on change, resilience, and embracing a new chapter. 👉 Listen now for a thoughtful conversation about life, landscape, and adaptation.

In this episode, host Linda Mellor is joined by Mark Ewart to discuss the importance of face-to-face connection and meaningful engagement with the wider public.Mark, Southern Uplands Moorland Group Regional Co-ordinator and National Engagement Manager for Scotland’s Regional Moorland Group, shares how events such as the Royal Highland Show create valuable opportunities to reach a broad audience. The conversation also explores community and school engagement through initiatives like taking the Moorlands into Schools, working alongside gamekeepers, and open moorland days.They also look at shoot days beyond the shooting itself, highlighting the benefits of working dogs, exercise, teamwork, friendship, camaraderie, time in beautiful landscapes, and positive mental wellbeing.

In this episode, host Linda Mellor is joined by Peter Gibbon for a candid conversation covering deer stalking, advances in technology, and the constant pressure created by smartphones and the expectation to respond immediately, realities that are not always talked about openly.Peter shares what led him to start his podcast, The Outdoor Gibbon, and the value of the spoken word in recording events and experiences. Linda and Peter also discuss the right to roam, the impact of a busier Scottish countryside on deer management, and the need to bridge the gap in understanding between public access to the hills and the realities of the working environment.The conversation also turns to wild game, exploring why, despite its seasonal abundance, more people are not making better use of wild and freely available food.

Deeply connected to the countryside, Andrew spends his days caring for bees, tending his sheep, managing local deer numbers and controlling foxes: no two days ever the same. In spring and summer, he’s always looking closely at the landscape, noticing what’s blossoming and how the season is unfolding for his bees.👉Listen in as Linda and Andrew talk about how he got started with his first hives, the life cycle of bees, the challenges of Scottish weather, and the seasonal plants he looks out for. As Andrew reflects on how beekeeping used to be far more common, his mum remembers when many households kept a hive in the garden, he shares why he’d love to see more gamekeepers and outdoor folk take it up again.With humour, humility and a genuinely therapeutic connection to his bees, Andrew talks about the value of good mentors, the history of the craft, and the satisfaction of making your own hives.

In this episode, host Linda Mellor talks with Mike and Caroline Beresford of Sandford Gundog Kennels — a husband-and-wife team whose lives are deeply rooted in gundogs, field sports, and country life.From Mike’s journey to becoming an English Cocker Championship winner to Caroline’s passion for whelping, training, and cooking game and using seasonal produce, their partnership embodies the balance of skill, respect, and stewardship that defines true country living.They share their thoughts on the future of field trials, and how a simple love of the land has shaped a life of purpose, partnership, and care for wildlife. An inspiring conversation about gundogs, country life, and the commitment to balanced teamwork.