GAMEKEEPERS aimed high when they held a clay pigeon shoot for two causes close to their hearts.

They raised almost £12,500 to split between the Great North Air Ambulance and the National Gamekeepers Organisation.

The event, the Yorkshire Challenge Cup, now in its second year, attracted a field of more than 80 competitors and took place on the Rosedale and Westerdale estate on the North York Moors.

And the lion’s share of the funds raised came from an auction of fishing and shooting lots as well as items donated by local business people.

Organiser Jimmy Brough, headkeeper on the estate, said: “Most of those taking part were, like me, full time gamekeepers. I can’t thank everyone enough for being so generous. Huge thanks must go to those who gave such magnificent lots to the auction.”

He added: “I wanted to raise money for our air ambulance, as it is an incredible service and helps so many people. In our job as gamekeepers, we never know when we might need to call on them. It’s great to be able to give something back.

“I also wanted to raise funds for the NGO as it protects my livelihood and way of life.”

The Yorkshire Challenge Cup was won by Team Coulson – made up entirely of grouse keepers from the North Pennines – with a straight-shooting score of 110 out of a maximum 120.