Badanloch gamekeeper wins major award
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A head gamekeeper from Sutherland’s role in encouraging future generations into rural occupations was today recognised with a major award at Moy Highland Field Sports Fair.
Brian Lyall started out at Badanloch Estate, Kinbrace, as a seasonal ghillie in 1976 before graduating to head gamekeeper, a position he still holds today.
As well as looking after stalking and fishing guests, he has carried on a rich tradition of rural education which was developed by former owner, the late Lord Leverhulme.
Viscount Leverhulme believed in the duty to instruct future generations, and Badanloch Estate became the first in Scotland to accept students from North Highland College UHI, as part of their training, in 1986.
Brian’s ability to pass on his knowledge of wildlife management and the special flora and fauna of the Flow Country was recognised with the Ronnie Rose Award.
The trophy, in memory of late author and forester Ronnie Rose MBE, is presented annually "for lasting contributions to conservation or education".
It is judged by the committee of its inaugurators, The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA), with oversight from the family of Ronnie Rose.
“When we received the nomination for Brian, it was not a difficult decision,” said Alex Hogg, chairman of The Scottish Gamekeepers Association.
“His knowledge of wildlife makes him special. There are few who know more than him and he continues to pass that knowledge on. This is deserved recognition for a true countryman and I am very proud to present it, on behalf of the Rose family.”
As well as carrying out estate activities, Brian works part-time at North Highland College’s Rural Studies Centre at Thurso.
Young male and female gamekeepers and wildlife managers learn practical skills and theoretical practice from his lively sessions.
David Shaw, lecturer in gamekeeping from the University of the Highlands and Islands, said: “Many committees and groups have benefited from Brian’s expertise over the years and he regularly shares this experience of contemporary issues with students and staff, helping to make sure our curriculum is always connected to ‘real life’ in Rural Scotland."
Whilst maintaining proud sporting traditions at the estate, Brian’s careful gamekeeping skills have led to a wildlife bounty at Badanloch.
The estate holds several protected designations for rare plant and bird species including olive bog-moss Sphagnum majus as well as threatened waders and breeding Ptarmigan.
Brian said: “When I knew I had won the trophy, I was shocked. Personally, it is reward in itself for me to see youngsters progressing and doing well in the industry but this is a real honour.”
