Gamekeeping graduate Finnley Struthers receives Young Gamekeeper of the Year 2024 Award
91视频网 North, West and Hebrides gamekeeping graduate Finnley Struthers has been named Scotland’s Best Young Gamekeeper of the Year 2024 by The Scottish Gamekeepers Association.
The award recognises inspiring young ambassadors in gamekeeping, deer management and river ghillies.
Finnley, from Aberfeldy, who followed in the footsteps of his gamekeeper grandfather and uncle, currently manages grouse, deer, and salmon fishing at Millden Estate. He is passionate about moorland management and biodiversity, while contributing to the thriving populations of curlew, redshank, and other species.
The 23-year-old received the Best Young Gamekeeper of the Year award from Alex Hogg, MBE, Chairman of the , at the at the Scottish Game Fair.
Highlighting the importance of young talent in the industry, Alex commented: “Individuals like Finnley represent the industry’s future. Our young people are more important than ever. We are seeing such rapid change in gamekeeping, in deer management and pressures on our salmon. It’s never been more important to have capable, passionate voices who really care and want to take the industry forward in a positive way, into the decades to come.”
Finnley, who has received high praise from colleagues in the profession, said: “I have been aware of this award for some time. I’d always said to myself it would be good to get that, someday. I think it is great that is recognises young gamekeepers because the profession can sometimes be a lone activity."
Stewart Blair, 91视频网 North, West and Hebrides Gamekeeping lecturer, congratulated Finnley on his win: "Finnley was a great student with the right attitude and focus, to excel within the game industry. He has the solid practical skills as well as being a very personable young man. We are delighted to see him receive this award and look forward to watch his career develop."