The Guild of British Molecatchers
Committed to traditional molecatching skills and welfare of the mole.
A non profit making organisation run by molecatchers for molecatchers. The only organisation working collectively to promote time honoured methods of mole control alongside welfare of the mole to ensure the future of this traditional craft.
Patron: Lord Donoughue of Ashton
President: John Noblett
Veterinary welfare advisor: Mr D A Shepherd BVMS MRCVS
Training course provider: Jeff Nicholls
National Coordinator (Publicity, Projects and Social): Position vacant
Youth and Schools Section Organiser: Position vacant
Membership secretary: Martin Noble
Newsletter editor: Patrick Pakenham-Keady
Wales representative: Mark Payne
Scottish representative:
English area representatives: See the area pages.
Website: Patrick Pakenham-Keady
The traditional skills of mole control were once a secret
closely guarded by both parish and travelling molecatchers in an
attempt to secure their livelihoods. Concealing their methods
and their knowledge of mole control inevitably led
to a reduction in demand for their traditional skills as other
methods for mole control were pioneered - notably the use of
poisons which required little knowledge of the mole or skill in
application.
The poison most commonly used for mole control was banned in 2006 so, after a long period of decline in the number of molecatchers working in Britain, once again traditional methods of mole control and the skills of the molecatcher are not only in demand but at the forefront of today’s humane approach to mole control.
Today, the Guild’s members and supporters are drawn from all walks of life – molecatchers both professional and amateur, pest control operators, gardeners and those simply interested in the customs, traditions and skills associated with mole control. Members and supporters do have one thing in common – they use traps, and only traps, for the control of moles.
Collectively, the members and supporters of the Guild of British Molecatchers represent an exceptional source of knowledge, skill and practical experience which, when combined with an acceptance of ongoing changes in both legislation and public opinion, ensures this traditional and proven method of mole control will continue to flourish.
The Guild is pro-active in addressing, and constantly aware of, issues surrounding animal welfare. The Guild actively promotes the use of "best practice" by its membership. The Guild is not only committed to traditional molecatching skills but also to the welfare of the mole.
The Guild is supported by British industry involved in the manufacture and supply of mole control products and leading figures from the world of mole control and the pest control industry.
The Guild has grown and will continue to grow through the voluntary commitment and effort of its members. Here, we identify and reward particular individuals who have worked, and continue to work for the Guild’s future by conferring upon them the position of “Honorary Life Member.”
By John Noblett
President of The Guild of British Molecatchers
Perhaps with the launch of the new web site, now is an appropriate time that as President of the Guild of British Molecatchers I say a few words about what as members of the Guild we should be aiming to achieve.
To show commitment to the welfare of moles whilst maintaining a standard of control that is recognised as being exemplary - a benchmark level of service that others can only aspire to.
To be a member of the only molecatcher group actively working to protect the future of traditional mole control in the United Kingdom.
The Guild of British Molecatchers is intent on establishing and maintaining a recognised standard for traditional mole control in Britain. The Guild’s training course is open to non members and members alike and is supported and endorsed by leaders in the pest control and mole trap supply industries.
Accreditation by The Guild of British Molecatchers - Setting the standard for mole control in Britain
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