'Stop gaming and take up shooting'

SHOOTERS yesterday called on more youngsters to take up the sport as they marked the opening of the hunting season. Scores of Guernsey Association for Shooting and Conservation members took to fields across the island in search of rabbits and pheasants.

And president David Wilson wants young people to turn their back on the television and computer and pick up a shotgun.

'It's good to see youngsters join. The children of today spend too much time on computers and having things bought for them,' he said.

'This is a hands-on sport that gets them outdoors and involved.

'Obviously safety and education are our priorities and any youngsters or their parents who are interested in joining us can contact me for more information.

'Shooting has become safer because of new rules recently introduced.

'All shooters must have a hunter's permit and we encourage them to be carried in the field.

'You do get the odd complaint to the police from a member of the public, but the police are very helpful. They do regular checks and we have never had any problems.'

Among the enthusiasts out yesterday were Geoff Le Gallez and Mark Le Cheminant, who were expecting a big haul.

'It's 11 o'clock now and we have caught (with the ferrets) 17 rabbits already - we are hoping to catch up to 40 today,' said Mr Le Gallez.

Mr Le Gallez, who has been shooting for more than 45 years, said that although the sport remained popular, he too would encourage younger people to get involved.

'We shoot every Saturday and we bring our dogs and ferrets. We have two 15- year-old boys who take part and, like my father did with me, I will teach them everything I know.

'But safety around the guns is the most important thing and that's the first subject we teach newcomers.'

For more information on joining the GASC, contact David Wilson on 254577.