Off-target

Graham Forsyth claims to have been exiled from Scotland for 30 years (Letters, 20 January). It seems obvious that he has been exiled from the realities of rural Scotland for just as long.

Mr Forsyth is correct to highlight the 240 million annual contribution made to the Scottish economy by shooting sports. However, he is entirely incorrect about shooting participants. People who shoot come from many and varied walks of life and it is certainly not just for the rich.

Recent independent research by the mountain studies unit at UHI Perth College reveals that in rural Scotland even those who do not take part in shooting recognise its importance to their local economies. The fact is that grouse shooting, along with other shooting sports and the income they generate, is helping to sustain jobs. This enables people to live in remote communities rather than become exiles in search of work.

ROSS MONTAGUE

Director, Scottish Countryside Alliance

Edinburgh