YORKSHIRE BRANCH

The Branch was pleased to welcome Riflecraft back for a Barrel clinic - members saw the places where the only shine comes from diligent cleaning.  The way barrels age with firing was clearly shown in a number of members' rifles and perhaps one or two might be planning to re-barrel or even spend on new rifles!

Simon Roche led a thought provoking illustrated discussion on ballistics and the merits of lead over non-lead projectiles. All members should read Peter Green's thoughtful evaluation on the issues of lead in bullets and read Deer magazine for the current guidance from the Society.

Both non shooting and shooting Branch members welcomed George Trebinksi in May who gave an illuminating talk on a Day in the Life of a Deer Photographer. Literally a dawn to dusk review of George's picture of deer through the seasons, members were able to ask questions and handle some of his equipment. The level of interest was very high and the meeting did not close until after 2200!

The Branch Spring Shoot was held again at Pickering Rifle Range. The weather was kind and a new order of fire produced not a few bewildered heads as shots did not always go where there were meant to! (Makes one wonder how we ever shoot any deer!)

The Branch continues to work with the Yorkshire Police Forces providing presentations and workshops to wildlife and rural crimes officers.  The topics covered so far this year include Deer Poaching, Rural Crimes, Deer Legal and Illegal Firearms. The branch initiative "Shine a light on Rural crime" continues to develop with nearly 5,000 posters issued to rural businesses and is proving to be a useful a useful introduction to the work of the Society at the various shows attended by the Branch. The Branch thanks York Guns for their continued support to the Branch and are now funding the cost of printing the posters.

By the time you read this the Branch will have attended the "Let it Grow" campaign show in Skipton, Yorkshire Game Fair, Brocklesby Show and the Great Yorkshire Show as well as supporting a number of school field trips to various local estates.

By popular request from members who want to sit and chat, the next Branch meeting will be a social event on July 21^st.  No speaker; just a TV playing current Society DVD's for interest. Usual place - Buckles Inn. Usual time 19.30hrs.

Best wishes to all members with their cull targets, deer watching and spotting activities.

Bob Holmes.

Forthcoming Events

15^th September         Dr Piran White - York University - Collaborative Deer Management

20^th October             Dr T Houseman - An introduction to Reloading

23^rd & 24^th October   Countryside Live - Yorkshire Showground Harrogate

24^th October             Rut Meet Studley Royal (see directions above)

17^th November         York Guns Shooting Products Accessories presentation of the latest new gear!

26^th January 2011     Branch AGM 26^th January