School pupils take part in gamekeeping workshop at rural Glenogil estate near Brechin

Pupils in Angus have been finding out what it takes to run Scotland’s sporting estates as part of a scheme to tackle the growing skills gap.

Hundreds of youngsters from both primary and secondary schools were welcomed to Glenogil estate near Brechin for the two-day event.

It’s part of the Estates that Educate programme which launched in 2016.

From air rifle shooting, to handling gun dogs, it’s hoped by giving them the opportunity to gain first-hand experience, it’ll inspire some to take up a career in the sector.

Youngsters were given the opportunity to handle air rifles under the close supervision of gamekeepers.

Kirk Norbury from Angus Glens Moorland Group told STV News: “What we’re trying to achieve is to give them a chance to try out so many different parts of the jobs that would be expected working on a sporting estate.

“No two days are alike, so the skill sets that you get from being here will set you up for a career [with] invaluable [skills for] future jobs.”

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation sponsored the event which runs across several moorland group estates in Scotland.

Hundreds attended gamekeeping workshop at Glenogil estate.

It comes as there’s growing concern that young people are leaving school for city life, but this is posing a real threat to Scotland’s working estates.

Lianne MacLennan from the organisation said: “The bonus for us is when they’re coming through and they’re not just learning about the countryside, but they’re seeing the different career opportunities that are available.

“Then a lot of them are choosing that career path, they are not just learning what’s on their doorstep. They’re staying which is populating the areas.”