

The gundog demonstrations are set to offer something for everyone. Professional gundog trainer Howard Kirby from Mullenscote Gundogs will be offering engaging demonstrations in the indoor and outdoor arenas. His team will provide top tips and training techniques to produce spaniels and retrievers from puppy hood to the shooting and competition field. Howard will also showcase his fantastic team of HPRs and English Setters and reveal unique techniques on how to train these highly specialised breeds.
Do you have an issue with your gundog in the field and want to resolve it? Howard is offering an exclusive ‘Q & A’ session in the indoor arena. The team will attempt to answer your questions and display how they problem solve when working a dog. There’s no doubt the popular demo will attract huge crowds over the two days so make sure you find a suitable viewing spot at the arena and enjoy the talented and captivating Mullenscote Gundogs.

There are an exciting range of have-a-go events that provide enjoyment for all the family. Whether you are taking part or watching there is plenty of banter between all involved. The scurry events can be highly competitive and may not suit everyone in the gundog domain but it’s a joy to watch the experienced dogs and handlers give a stylish performance.
The main aim for the serious scurry competitor is to make the top fastest 20 dogs in the BASC Scurry League and receive an invite to compete in the grand final which will determine the overall winner. Throughout the spring and summer competitors can attend 9 game fairs across the country and have the opportunity to gain prizes and points for the league in each scurry they compete in.

Many youngsters take part in the have-a-go events, some simply want to have a fun challenge with their family pet, whilst others wish to experience the test environment and put their training into practice. These young handlers are dynamic and full of enthusiasm and the West of England Game Fair offers an exciting and unique challenge for the next generation of our gundog handlers.
Make sure the have-a-go events are one of the many highlights of your day. Grab some lunch and find a suitable viewing spot to watch a plethora of dogs in action. You’ll be suitably impressed by the experts and their biddable dogs and you’ll have a giggle at the unexpected antics of those dogs that happily ignore the whistle, jump the straw bales and aim for the nearest game-burger stand. It’s a delight to watch and fabulous entertainment for all the family.

BASC have a variety of gundog activities for this year and BASC Gundog Officer Kate Dymock is delighted to confirm the return of the Training Clinic with experienced trainer Jim Penaliggon. Alongside the clinic is the ever popular BASC Gundog Test run by M & M Gundogs. This is an ideal way to see if your basics are solidly ingrained and to evaluate your training progress in a test environment.
If you’re looking to talk through any training issues or find out about gundog classes the Duchy and North Devon Gundog Club will be situated on the BASC balcony and available to discuss any training queries you may have. It’s the perfect opportunity to have a chat with like minded people and obtain some re-assurance with your training techniques.
There’s never been a better time to buy!
There are a vast amount of trade stands at the show with lots on offer so make sure you grab yourself a show guide so you can easily find your main interest. Most of us make our purchases on-line nowadays so use the show to take a step away from online shopping and treat yourself to buying items in person. Talk to likeminded people and share knowledge, tips and recommendations about products. This will give you an opportunity to see what’s on the market and enable you to make an informed decision. Give yourself a chance to identify what products appeal to you. But be warned - you’ll be spoilt for choice!
There’s no question this event will celebrate those who are passionate about their working dogs. The West of England Game Fair is the perfect opportunity to relax with family and friends and absorb the sights and sounds of a countryside extravaganza. With my writer’s tool kit in hand I will be there to capture a variety of gundog activities in action and yes, I will be stopping at the Foxdenton stand to test the variety of tipples that are a must-have for any countryside writer - Look forward to seeing you there!