Countryside Pursuits
Having been born and grown up in the countryside of Devonshire, on the north side of Dartmoor National Park, Paul has a deep connection and profound respect for all aspects of country living and admiration for the individuals and families who actively manage the land and resources, often for generations. This sense of connection is enhanced by branches of his family lineage, being Devonian since the 13th century, over 800 years.
Paul takes an active interest in all aspects of the countryside and is a proud member of organisations such as the Countryside Alliance, the Landowners Association and the Woodland Trust.
Paul Borrow-Longain with his dog Marlborough
Paul Borrow-Longain at the 2022 Devon County Show
Agriculture is an integral component of rural life, and supporting farmers, land owners and other professionals who dedicate themselves to the countryside is paramount. This fundamental belief is why supporting and attending the Devon County Show, other agriculture shows, and horse-related events such as the Royal Windsor Horse Show are highlights of his social calendar.
Paul is a Vice-President of the Devon County Show and the Devon Agricultural Association.
Many of Paul’s hobbies and social events are interconnected with the countryside, including stalking, shooting, horse jumping and Polo. He is a member of organisations such as the British Horse Society.
Protection, conservation and rewilding of British wildlife, focusing on natural solutions to reverse our biodiversity crisis is of paramount importance. This is normally achieved through native species reintroductions, focusing on keystone species which have the ability to change the landscape by creating space and complexity for hundreds of other species to recover and thrive.
The Borrow-Longain family crest is the Lynx, a top predator, and as such a keystone species and a fascinating example of how introducing one animal can massively impact their ecosystem. They change the behaviour of the species they predate upon, keeping animals moving which prevents overgrazing and allows saplings and new growth to establish. The carcases they leave fertilise the soil and provide a food source for other animals. The lynx was persecuted to extinction in Great Britain in the Middle Ages, although some records suggest their presence in Scotland up until the 18th century, and their reintroduction could be a possible solution for controlling deer populations in the Scottish highlands.
This is why my family and I are committed to animal conservation, with a strong interest in Lynx, and are supporting these projects in Devonshire.
