YOUNG people with an interest in country sport have the chance to give it a shot at a special event in Dorset.

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has partnered with the Blackmore Vale Shooting and Conservation Society to provide a 'Young Shots' taster day for young people with an interest in country sports such as clay pigeon shooting.

Participants will get the opportunity to learn about these sports from qualified instructors who maintain high standards of safety.

As well as the ability to take part in shooting activities with the help of a BASC-accredited coach, young people who take part in the events will also be given detailed talks on firearm safety and legislation, as well as fieldcraft.

All young people aged between eight and 18 are welcome, regardless of their level of experience of country sports and shooting.

James Green, BASC's regional officer for South West England, said: “Our Young Shots days offer an excellent opportunity to try something new in a safe and supervised environment.

"No previous experience is needed as our coaches and volunteers are experts at helping newcomers to country sports.

"They provide a fantastic insight into the country way of life and importantly they have proven to be a great day out."

The BASC promotes country wellbeing and the preservation of country sports and is the largest organisation of its kind in the UK, with more than 140,000 members across the country.

It counts Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, as its patron.

John Maiden, from Blackmore Vale Shooting and Conservation Society, said: “We have been helping BASC to run these days for the last eight years and the event continues to grow from strength to strength.

"It is such a great experience when you see a youngster smiling from ear to ear after they have broken their first ever clay.

"Don’t miss out on your chance to experience the countryside in a new way."

The event will take place on Sunday, May 8 and there are limited places on the course, which costs £25 per person.

Booking forms are available either by calling the BASC South West office on 01823 480903 or by emailing southwest@basc.org.uk.