BASC paid tribute to its late former executive director of communications and public affairs, Christopher Graffius, during The Game Fair.
The weekend began with the launch of a political debate held in his name before his family accepted the Prince Philip Distinguished Service Award on his behalf. The posthumous award, one of BASC’s highest honours, recognised more than two decades of service to the association.
Held in the Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre, the inaugural debate was hosted by Fieldsports Channel presenter Charlie Jacoby. Orlando Wind-Cowie, BASC’s relationship manager with the Labour Party, joined Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Shooting and Conservation, to discuss what the new government must do to reconnect with the countryside.
The discussion covered firearms licensing, land management and the position of shooting and rural communities within government policy. BASC intends the debate to become a permanent fixture at The Game Fair.
Garry Doolan, BASC’s executive director of communications and Christopher’s former deputy, said: “Christopher taught us that the countryside only gets heard in Westminster if we understand the people we’re talking to and build the right relationships early. I felt his influence in every word that was said today.”
On Saturday, Christopher’s daughters, Catriona and Elizabeth, collected the Prince Philip Distinguished Service Award from BASC chief executive Ian Bell.
Paying tribute, Bell said: “Christopher gave more than two decades of distinguished service to BASC. He became one of the most influential and well-respected voices for shooting and conservation in the UK and beyond.”
Catriona Graffius said: “Seeing the debate held in our father’s name and collecting the award on his behalf has been deeply moving. Dad gave his life to BASC. It was a huge part of his world, and it has meant a great deal to us to see how he has been remembered this weekend. He adored his job and would have been so proud.”