This year’s End of Season Beaters’ Bash, held at Lonach Hall in Aberdeenshire, celebrated the strength and support found within rural communities. Welcoming gamekeepers, stalkers, ghillies and all those within the industry, many came together for a well-earned social evening while raising vital funds for the Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust (GWT).

The event, which took place on Friday 20 February, raised an incredible £4,409.15 and attracted a near 150 guests. The auction alone raised £2,850, with the remaining £1559.15 via donations on entry, the raffle, and the bar.

Reflecting on what was described as a lively and vibrant evening, Lois Campbell of Jane Craigie Marketing and co-organiser of the Beaters’ Bash said:

“Events like this are invaluable for strengthening relationships across rural communities and provide a rare opportunity to bring together estates from the north east of Scotland and beyond. It was a well-earned night after a long winter season and it’s wonderful to see more people attending each year.”

Main sponsor of the Beaters’ Bash, Louise Fotheringham of Spratt's Game Foods, added:

“It is vital for our business to stay connected with those already in the industry and to support newcomers. The evening offers just this, and was, as ever, thoroughly enjoyable, full of energy and good humour – and thanks in no small part to all those in attendance.”

Event co-organiser Allan Whyte, commented:

“We hope the Beaters’ Bash is now firmly established as a key date in everyone’s calendar and continues to grow in both impact and popularity."

"It has been held in various community halls across Aberdeenshire over the years, organised by different people. Three years ago, a few of us were keen to restart it, bringing together people from across Scottish estates for a good night whilst raising funds for a charity that all resonates with us.”

The GWT is an organisation in the UK supporting gamekeepers, stalkers, ghillies, and their families, offering financial and educational grants, a confidential helpline and a job register.

According to the Trust’s most recent data, in 2025, 36% of those who reached out did so due to employment issues and redundancy, 25% for health concerns and 20% for finance and housing support.

During the year, GWT nurses carried out 1500 health MOTs and spent 63 days attending events across the UK. The Trust also keeps in regular contact with over 2000 people through ongoing counselling support, including personal touches such as cards and flowers.

Lois Added:

“The evening has become an important event for the industry, ensuring that we, not only shine a light on those within the sector, but also have a chance to give back and reflect on all we accomplish.”

“Thank you to Spratt's Game Foods for sponsoring the event, Keith Ogg for leading the auction, Liam Eddie for providing the music, Bill Barclay for his efforts behind the bar, and to Melissa Chapman for her immense support overseeing the entire event. A huge thank you as well to everyone who came along and helped make the evening such a success – the generosity has been truly overwhelming. I wish you all the very best over the summer before the 2026 season begins in September.”

The organisers would also like to thank the generous donors who contributed to the auction and raffle prizes:

• Cairngorms Glamping

• Collies Butchers

• Forbes Raeburn – The Family Butcher

• Finzean Farm Shop

• Glen Tanar Riding Centre

• Glenkilrie Larder

• Ian Stephen

• Littlewood Sporting Estate

• Lochter Activity Centre

• Lochter Fishery

• Lonach Hall

• McNab

• Mel Shand Artist

• Michael Buchan

• MK Roofing and Lead Work

• Norvite Farm & Country

• Raemoir Garden Centre

• The Alford Bistro

• The Secret Garden

• Tillypronie Estate

• TwinPeakes Fly Fishing

• Tuffies Dog Beds

• William Mitchell & Son

This event is kindly sponsored by Spratt's Game Foods. For more information, visit their website here.