As the season for game shooting closes, this issue is packed full of heavyweight reading material to keep you going in the dark, cold months leading to spring. Guest edited by BASC chief executive, former Brigadier Ian Bell, this issue has military overtones with a report on a new shoot that’s being held on an historic RAF station and a look back at how fieldsports were often part of life on the front line. We also speak to Aim to Sustain’s new operations director, former artillery officer, Spike Butcher. Front cover artist, Owen Williams, who is one of Britain’s foremost woodcock conservationists, gives us an update on the diminutive wader’s status. Former GWCT chairman Ian Coghill has rant about the RSPB’s stance on grouse shooting. Plus we celebrate Eric Clapton 20th anniversary of co-owning country clothing retailer Cordings. Photojournalist Matt Harris whisks us off to the Seychelles for some sunshine and fly fishing for milk fish - this one is the perfect read for escapism. Then there’s delicious game recipes to make at home by Charlie Hibbert, head chef at The Ox Barn at Thyme.