Following a revamp of the Scottish sweepstake scheme we have been delighted by the response of members and supporters who helped raise over £11k in the 25/26 season - a fantastic sum and one we are hugely grateful for. We’ve also had great feedback from those donors on the upgrade to Eight Lands gin that is provided in exchange for funds raised and that we are working with a local Scottish distillery. Eight Lands is a distinguished Scottish distillery nestled between the Highlands and the River Spey who will continue to offer a truly local product as part of our sweepstakes — Eight Lands’ premium sloe gin.
We are also delighted to continue to work with Hull Cartridge and FocusFive Designs going into next season. Hull Cartridge is a sponsor of our sweepstakes and a long-time supporter of GWCT in Scotland and also provide a slab of cartridges as part of a raffle for all donors each year and Focus Five Designs supplies a JerryBar to the raffle.
How it works
The sweepstake can still be run in various fun ways, whether it’s based on the day’s bag, the number of species, or even the number of empty cases. Some shoots enjoy adding fines for specific actions, like shooting a white pheasant or having the dirtiest pair of boots. No matter the size of your shoot, there’s a way for everyone to get involved and make a difference.
The basic premise, which is similar to all sweepstake schemes, is that all those shooting are asked to guess how many per head will be shot (for example) on payment of any amount from £1 upwards.
At the end of the day, half the takings are given to the person nearest to the correct number and the remainder to the Trust to help their vital research.
After submitting the monies raised during the season the Trust will reward the contributor with one bottle of Eight Lands sloe gin per £200 raised. We send a letter of thanks acknowledging the donation, provide you with a certificate to display in your shoot room and each donor will also be entered into a raffle at the end of the season, with a chance to win a slab of cartridges and an industrial JerryBar.
For anyone that wishes to participate, we will send out a sweepstake pack which will include:
- Game cards
- Shoot sweepstake record cards
- Cartridge bags
- A collecting tube
- Supporting literature
- A Good Shooting Guide
These items are provided free of charge to all sweepstake members.
Lastly, Eight Lands has generously offered a free bottle of sloe gin to everyone who signs up for the updated scheme ... why wouldn't you!
Please confirm your participation by emailing Rory Donaldson via rdonaldson@gwct.org.uk and we will ensure the new kit and gin are sent out to you.
