By Barnaby Dracup
Wednesday, 28 July 2010
Ragley Hall is a hit with visitors and exhibitors as the CLA Game Fair welcomes a political change in the countryside.
The CLA Game Fair’s new venue at Ragley Hall, in Warwickshire, proved popular with visitors who enjoyed three days of fine weather and a spectacular variety of entertainment at the show.
Game Fair organiser, Fiona Eastman, said, “We had 144,000 visitors, the highest number ever apart from our 50th year. The over riding sense is that trade was good and the exhibitors loved the location as it brought visitors from all over the country. Lord and Lady Hertford, who hosted the event said they thoroughly enjoyed the three days.”
A significant shift in the political climate was in evidence at the first Game Fair to be held under the coalition Government.
In contrast to last year, when no senior Labour ministers attended discussions on rural affairs, this year both the agriculture minister Jim Paice MP and minister for environment Richard Benyon MP sat on the panels for debates in the Game Fair Theatre and secretary of state Caroline Spelman toured the site with CLA president William Worsley.
Richard Benyon MP, said: “There is a real hunger within the Government to get things done for rural Britain. There are now four ministers in DEFRA with a background in agriculture and there is respect for fieldsports and the other parts of life rural people care about.”
Jim Paice MP, who took part in a debate on wildlife, said: “It is hugely important that people go to events like the Game Fair where they can learn about the reality of country sports rather than some of the untruths that are out there.”
The crowds were as large as ever.
The Jive Pony display shows off its skills.
The Gundog International in full swing.
BASC coaches giving a few pointers on the clay line.
The latest fashion item for Game Fair goers: A genuine fur ruff.
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