Thousands of visitors headed for a weekend of countryside sport and entertainment at Harewood House, near Leeds
It’s been a while since the CLA Game Fair set up in Yorkshire – 12 years to be exact - but at least 131,000 visitors were glad to welcome the event back to the region. They poured into the grounds of Harewood House, Leeds over three days to help celebrate the great British countryside.
The fair organised by the Country Land and Business Association which takes the Game Fair to a different venue each year, draws countryside lovers from all walks of life including politicians, business people and ‘confirmed townies’, keen to enjoy the huge range of attractions, browse the multitude of exhibitors and take part in a range of country sports.
‘I am delighted that the intermittent downpours and early morning showers on show days didn’t dampen the support and enthusiasm of CLA members, visitors and exhibitors. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved with the CLA Game Fair team in delivery this great event,’ said the organisation’s director general Helen Woolley.
‘Planning is already underway for the 2016 event at Ragley Hall, July 29th -31st when we look forward to welcoming all rural enthusiasts for the annual celebration of the great British countryside’
The event is believed to be the world’s largest countryside-themed outdoor show and boasts a comprehensive itinerary for the whole family, including gundog handling, clay shooting, archery, fishing, falconry, kayaking and ferreting. Working dog competitions took place throughout the show alongside have-a-go family favourites such as the Open and Novice Scurry.
Qualified shotgun coaches were on hand to give lessons to both novices and more experienced shots. Clay shooters with a competitive nature took part in a 40-bird competition run across eight stands with different types of simulated game. Plus there was three days of shopping at about 850 stands – making up the seventh largest retail area anywhere in the UK.
