Worthy winners – Cox siblings receive GWT Young Gamekeeper of the Year (Junior) award

The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust’s (GWT) 2024 award for Young Gamekeeper of the Year (Junior) has been shared by three siblings. All three of Dawn and Johnathan Cox’s children were recently recognised as being worthy winners of the award, which was devised by GWT Trustee Lady Scott, who wished to recognise the families of those in gamekeeping roles who give so much, helping in whatever task is required. 

Johnathan Cox, head keeper at Buckhurst Park Estate in East Sussex, and his wife Dawn spoke of how seven-year-old Amber, eight-year-old Beanie and nine-year old Arthur, have the best attitude to their way of life. ‘At times, pausing to see the keepering jobs through the eyes of our children puts everything into perspective’. Dawn and Johnathan have their team trained to the recall whistle and never receive any grumbles at 5am starts, or that family time is found out and about on the job. 

By far the most engaging part of the job, sparking the most interest and questions from the three youngsters, is hatching birds. From collecting eggs right through to chicks coming out of the hatcher, they’re enthralled, taking tales of their life into school with them. At the end of the summer holidays when they’re asked in the classroom what they’d got up to during their time off, ‘adventures with Daddy’ is the answer. 

The Awards were given at Buckhurst Park Estate by Lord Dalhousie, thanks to owner Earl De Le Warr. Lady de Warr provided a wonderful celebratory afternoon tea. Our Patron, Lord James Percy, commented to Lord Dalhousie:

"It’s a pleasure to recognise the interest and work of future guardians of the countryside. Our keepers today are at the coal face of conservation and these youngsters are gaining a tremendous education in management of our countryside."

The charity’s CEO, Helen MJ Benson, said:

"We’ve seen a growing number of nominations for our Young Gamekeeper Awards this year – we have one more Award to present. It’s a good indication of how many youngsters there are learning about the practical aspects of countryside management and conservation."

Roger Seddon, Shooting Campaign Manager for the Countryside Alliance, said:

“The Cox family can all be proud of these awards, and with Amber, Beanie and Arthur all keen as mustard to help out, our countryside will be in the best hands in years to come."