01/03/2006 - Information on Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Not surprisingly we are receiving a lot of questions about the possible threat of avian influenza to next season's shooting programme. While we are confident that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard next season's sport, we have, nonetheless, been working very closely with certain shoots as to what their policy would be if teams were unable to shoot due to an outbreak of avian flu within the UK.

A number of estates have cancellation insurance in place whereas some estates are saying that if a 50% deposit has been paid, then they would like to retain these monies and roll them on against a day the following season. Clients would then only have to pay 50% for a day the following year. We advise all guns to look very carefully at the Terms and Conditions for any days you book as estates are operating a number of different policies re cancellation for next season. However, at the same time we feel strongly that, wherever you shoot, you should support the estates through the current difficulties so that we can all enjoy the sport we love in the future.

The Countryside Alliance has written a very useful question and answer document to try and clarify the current position on avian influenza and the impact it may have on shooting. They will endeavour to keep this document up to date, but of course events may change. For information about vaccination, importing, releasing and movement of birds as well as other useful information, please look Countryside Alliance website.

Additionally, you can visit the government's site at: www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai
for up-to-date information.

Should you still be looking for a day, then please do not hesitate to contact us as we still have a few days available, despite the fact that demand has been as good as ever.