Countryside Ring 2009

We are on the process of finalising the events in the Countryside Ring this year.

Last year we decided to add a Countryside Ring to our attractions. It offered an opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of popular country pursuits. It proved to be very popular and we will once again have a Countryside Ring, it is a smaller, more intimate ring, where you can sit down and enjoy the expertise in our wonderful displays. Feel free to get involved and ask questions. Make the most of the chance to pick the brains of some of the most experienced countrymen available. The following was what our visitors enjoyed last year.

All events sponsored by:
J Broomhall Butchers	Carpet Giant	The Ship Inn	BASC	The British Deer Society

Please note that all times are approximate, but every effort will be made to adhere to this schedule which was correct at the time of going to press.

Woodpigeon Decoying - Den Kurle 10:30 and 16:15

Den Kurle is a regular contributor to Countryside Rings at a large number of Game Fairs and Country Shows throughout the country. He has a vast knowledge garnered over many years of practical experience in the countryside. Today he will show you the art of decoying Woodpigeons, Crows and Magpies. Den is one of the most entertaining and charming chaps you'll meet. Expect a few bangs as guns are fired.

Gun Dogs and Their Training - Cliffe Waite 11:00 and 14:00

Cliff has spent over thirty years training working dogs, both Spaniels and Labradors. Today he has brought with him his Pride of Gundogs and he will demonstrate how easy he can make it look - starting their training on a kitchen table! Cliff has a wealth of knowledge about dogs and you could pick up a few tips about training your dog. Well worth seeing!

A Young Countryman's Tales - James Green 11:45 and 15:30

Although still a young man James has grown up in the countryside and will demonstrate all forms of fishing, from the chalk stream to the sea. The what, when and how of fishing, even a few top tips on eating the results. He is also an experienced wildfowler and will introduce you to the joys of winter wildfowling, decoys and calls. Expect a few bangs as guns are fired.

Deer Stalking - David Kenyon 12:30

David is a stalwart and senior member of The British Deer Society. He will give you a closer look at this very popular country pastime, including management and conservation of deer. There will also be a demonstration of tracking Deer.

Harness Goat Society 13:00

This is a great opportunity for children to get in the ring and meet these charming animals and their owners. The goats will have their carts all ready to go and you can ask the members of the Harness Goat Society all about goat husbandry in this increasingly popular pastime.

A History of The Sporting Gun - Ian Summerhill 13:30

Ian is a gunsmith and knife maker by trade and a passionate shot with a huge knowledge of guns and shooting. Today he presents A History of the Sporting Gun with his friend and colleague Den Kurle. Together they will take you through the history of this fascinating sport, from the matchlock to the 21st century. Expect lots of noise as several guns are fired.

Fell Ponies - George Guy 14:45

George Guy shares his passion for his Fell Ponies and invites you to meet them. George is also hoping to be joined by Paul Metcalfe from the Cumbrian Fells, an authority on the history and development of these wonder sturdy animals.

The Working Hunt - Hounds 15:15

With help from Wick & District Beagles & Leadon Vale Basset Hounds, find out what the hounds actually do and everybody's role in a hunt.