HRH The Princess Royal presents awards at The Game Fair
The Princess Royal presented the BASC Prince Philip Distinguished Service Awards to Jonathan Young and Collin Teago at the Game Fair today.
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The Game Fair that had it all
BASC’s central regional director Lewis Thornley reflects on an outstanding return to Blenheim Palace for the Game Fair this year.
With perfect weather conditions and a stunning venue in Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, The Game Fair welcomed more than 120,000 visitors who were treated to a fantastic renewal of this three-day festival of the countryside.
BASC’s presence at the show this year was bigger and better than ever. Our main stand was a hive of information for BASC members and non-members alike, incorporating informative displays from our core departments such as gamekeeping, deer management, conservation, wildfowling and firearms.
Our team of specialists handled thousands of enquires over the three days, with consistent themes including using sustainable ammunition, firearms licensing, general licences and engaging with the new Labour government. Our membership services area saw hundreds of current members renew and new ones join BASC and we would like to take this opportunity to welcome all; thank you for your support.
Talking politics
The Game Fair provides us with a unique platform to invite decision makers and those who have influence within our sector. We hosted 29 members of parliament over the three days, many of whom were newly-elected Labour MPs.Â
We took the opportunity to show them a snapshot of our industry, highlighting the benefits that shooting delivers and engage discussion around the key issues which may impact its future. We were also in the unique position of being able to offer them a lesson with our expert BASC shotgun coaches for those who wished to experience shooting for themselves.
Glorious game
With an outstanding start list of chefs lined up for the BASC Wild Food Kitchen Theatre across the weekend, the area attracted big crowds each day for cookery and butchery demonstrations.Â
Each one showcased game meat at its very best and highlighted the benefits of cooking with top-quality and sustainable produce. Interaction with the audience was fantastic throughout with many people taking the opportunity to speak with the chefs afterwards.Â
Chefs who joined us this year included Escape to the Chateau‘s Dick and Angel Strawbridge, JB Gill – farmer and former JLS band member, and First Dates‘ Merlin Griffiths.Â
In keeping with the wild food theme, our teams cooked and served game tasters to the passing public from a tee-pee next to our main stand over the three days. This was very well received by those who stopped by for a tasty bite.Â
Guns and gundogs
A total of 488 people booked a lesson with one of BASC’s shotgun coaches at this year’s show, which included those who had never picked up a gun before right through to experienced shots looking for technical pointers. The BASC airgun range was equally popular, providing airgun experiences to 551 visitors.
The BASC gundog scurries, supported by Skinner’s and Sporting Saint, are always high on the list for anyone interested in working dogs. We welcomed 450 entrants over the three days and saw many different working dog breeds with their handlers of all ages taking part.
Looking forward to next year
The Game Fair remains as the flagship countryside event of the year and long may it continue.
All BASC members receive complimentary entry to the Game Fair across all three days, and I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this outstanding offer if you’re thinking of coming to the show next year. Almost 29,000 people did exactly that this time around.
We are pleased to announce that BASC will remain as an official partner of The Game Fair, ensuring that complimentary entry will continue for another three years. BASC members can also get a discounted rate for guests and many other Game Fair packages. For more information visit the www.thegamefair.org.
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BASC Media team
BASC at The Game Fair
Now in its 65th year, The Game Fair is regarded as the UK’s flagship country event and a celebration of all things countryside.
BASC at The Game Fair
The Game Fair returns this weekend and we have a packed schedule of demonstrations and events planned to complement the main BASC stand.
