Bell Ingram Announces Headline Sponsorship of Scotland’s Premier Country Sports Tourism Conference

Bell Ingram, a leading firm of rural chartered surveyors, is proud to announce its headline sponsorship of Scotland’s flagship Country Sports Tourism Conference.

As a company dedicated to managing sporting estates across Scotland, this partnership is a natural fit, reflecting Bell Ingram’s commitment to supporting and promoting the country’s thriving country sports tourism industry.

This new event will be held at Blair Castle on 2 May 2025 and will bring together estates, sporting providers, tourism businesses, and key stakeholders to explore the future of country sports tourism in Scotland. Organised by Country Sport Scotland, the leading resource for country sports tourism proudly owned and operated by the British Association for Shooting & Conservation (BASC), the conference aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing, networking, and collaboration within the sector through expert-led keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops.

Scotland is globally renowned for its rich sporting heritage, offering world-class experiences such as deer stalking in the Highlands, game shooting on prestigious estates, and fly fishing on legendary rivers.

With country sports tourism contributing £340 million in direct value and £760 million in total economic impact annually, Bell Ingram recognises the importance of strengthening and promoting this vital industry.

Rob Whitson, Head of Rural Land Management at Bell Ingram, commented: “As specialists in the management of Scotland’s finest sporting estates, we understand the importance of sustainable country sports tourism. This conference provides an invaluable opportunity for industry leaders to collaborate and ensure the sector’s long-term success.”

Kirk Norbury, Project Manager of Country Sport Scotland said: “This is a significant step forward for Scotland’s country sports tourism sector. Our industry plays a crucial role in supporting rural economies, attracting international visitors, and preserving Scotland’s sporting history. By bringing together experts, businesses, and providers, we can ensure that country sports tourism remains a sustainable and thriving part of Scotland’s visitor economy.”

Peter Clark, Scotland Director of BASC said: “Scotland showcases the very best of sporting tourism, with a worldwide reputation of warm hospitality and the very best of experiences. BASC was delighted to take on board Country Sport Scotland last year, and we have seen this organisation go from strength to strength since this acquisition. This inaugural conference will bring the brightest and the best in the sector to champion a way forward for Scotland’s world-renowned sporting sector”.

With strong demand from the UK, Europe, and North America, Scotland’s country sports sector has significant growth potential, particularly in high-end markets. The conference will explore strategies to position Scotland as a world-class destination for fieldsports, ensuring its continued success and sustainability.

Bell Ingram looks forward to playing a key role in fostering innovation and driving the future growth of Scotland’s country sports tourism sector.

Alexander Jameson Joins Bell Ingram as Consultant Partner

Bell Ingram welcomes Alexander Jameson MRICS FAAV as Consultant Partner in the Rural Land Management team in Perth.

Alex is a highly experienced land professional specialising in estate and sporting management. He was the principal and owner of Jameson Rural, based in Perth, and works across Scotland and the north of England. Over the last 10 years he has been involved in various committees for Scottish Land & Estates, including their National Policy Group

A Rural Practice Surveyor, Alex has a strong background in rural estate management, estate planning, farming, forestry, landlord and tenant matters, compensation, and conservation. He also has significant expertise in sporting management, particularly in grouse moors and estates across Scotland and the north of England. In addition, he has experience in renewable energy projects, including hydroelectric schemes.

Alex said: “Scotland’s rural estates are facing a period of significant change, with increasing pressure from land reform legislation, climate and biodiversity targets, and changing expectations around land use. Now, more than ever, estate owners and land managers need to navigate complex legal and regulatory challenges while ensuring their businesses remain sustainable. I look forward to working with Bell Ingram’s Rural Land Management team in Perth to help clients adapt to these changes and make informed decisions about their land and assets.”

Managing Partner Mark Mitchell said: “We are pleased to have Alex on board at such a crucial time for Scotland’s rural sector. With major legislative changes ahead, including reforms to landownership, tenancy laws, and environmental policies, landowners need expert advice to stay ahead. Alex brings a wealth of knowledge in rural estate management, and his expertise will be invaluable in supporting our clients through these challenges.”

Bell Ingram Announces Senior Promotions to Strengthen Leadership Team

Leading land and property specialists Bell Ingram is delighted to announce the promotion of James Petty to the Executive Board and Rhona Booth to the Bell Ingram Partnership, effective from 1st April 2025.

James Petty, the Partner in charge of Bell Ingram’s Aberdeen office, brings a wealth of experience to his new role on the Executive Board. A highly accomplished RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer, James specialises in valuations, utilities, and pipelines, as well as rural land management and estate agency. His expertise extends to compulsory purchase work, including significant projects such as the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route. His extensive knowledge of estate management, land letting, and working with major utility companies further strengthens Bell Ingram’s leadership team.

Rhona Booth, the Forfar office manager, has been promoted to the Bell Ingram Partnership in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the firm. A highly experienced RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer, Rhona advises clients across Perthshire and Angus on all aspects of estate and farm management. Her expertise is in renewables but her role also encompasses landlord and tenant negotiations, telecommunications mast agreements, utility projects, and CPO compensation claims. Since joining Bell Ingram in 2020, Rhona has been instrumental in delivering exceptional service to clients, leveraging her 20 years of industry experience.

Bell Ingram’s Managing Partner Mark Mitchell commented: “We are thrilled to welcome James to the Executive Board and Rhona to the Partnership. Their promotions reflect their dedication, expertise, and significant contributions to our business. As we continue to evolve and grow, their leadership will be invaluable in driving Bell Ingram forward.”

Vice Lord Lieutenant Malcolm Taylor welcomes Prince William to Angus for Rural Mental Health Talks

Bell Ingram’s Senior Partner, Malcolm Taylor, had the honour of welcoming His Royal Highness Prince William to Angus this week, in a visit that reinforced the Prince’s deep commitment to supporting mental health within rural communities.

The visit was part of a wider initiative aimed at addressing mental health challenges in the farming sector. Over the course of the day, the Prince visited several key locations, including the Men’s Shed in Carnoustie, where he met members and learned about the invaluable role the organisation plays in combating loneliness and isolation among older men. He also saw first-hand the devastation caused by Storm Ewoyn at a nearby strawberry farm and engaged in meaningful discussions with young farmers about the support available to them. Topics ranged from mental well-being to the positive role social media can play in strengthening community ties.

Malcolm, who was appointed Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Angus shortly before the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in May 2023, has served the county for over a decade as a Deputy Lord-Lieutenant. His appointment is a reflection of his dedication to the local community and his deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing rural Angus.

During the visit, the Duke of Rothesay – as Prince William is known in Scotland – demonstrated a genuine and informed interest in the issues being discussed. Malcolm observed that the Prince was “extremely engaged, asking searching and intelligent questions”, keen to gain a thorough understanding of the efforts being undertaken by local organisations to support those working and living in rural areas.

Mental health awareness in rural communities is a cause that Bell Ingram is proud to champion. As a corporate supporter of RSABI, the charity dedicated to helping farmers and those in the agricultural sector facing hardship, the company is committed to breaking down barriers around mental health discussions. The importance of this cause was further highlighted in 2023 when the Duchy of Cornwall, under Prince William’s leadership, launched a dedicated mental health strategy for Duchy tenants, prioritising well-being and encouraging open conversations about mental health.

At a roundtable event hosted by the Farm Safety Foundation, the Prince spoke about the need to remove “taboos and stigmas around mental health” – a message that resonated deeply with Malcolm and others in attendance. The visit reaffirmed the collective effort being made by local authorities, charities, and businesses to ensure those in rural communities receive the support they need.

Reflecting on the day, Malcolm underscored the significance of the Prince’s involvement, stating that his presence and thoughtful approach have further strengthened ongoing initiatives to improve mental health support in Angus.

Bell Ingram remains steadfast in its commitment to the well-being of rural communities. Under Malcolm Taylor’s leadership, both in his role as Vice Lord-Lieutenant and within the company as Senior Partner, Bell Ingram will continue to support initiatives that foster resilience, awareness, and lasting change for those living and working in Scotland’s countryside.