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So far Sophie Justice has created 96 blog entries.

Birds of Prey to Soar at Scottish Game Fair

2026-07-15T11:12:11+00:00

Visitors to this year’s Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Scottish Game Fair can look forward to breathtaking birds of prey displays as Elite Falconry returns to the Main Arena at Scone Palace this July (3-5).  Recognised as one of the UK’s leading falconry and birds of prey centres, Elite Falconry will deliver two live demonstrations each day across the three-day event, showcasing the remarkable speed, power and intelligence of some of the world’s most impressive raptors.  Among the stars taking to the skies above Perthshire will be River, a magnificent white-tailed eagle, alongside a variety of falcons, hawks, vultures and other birds of prey in a series of educational and entertaining flying ...

Birds of Prey to Soar at Scottish Game Fair2026-07-15T11:12:11+00:00

Murray Thomson – A passionate advocate for countryside sports and sustainable living

2026-07-15T11:27:48+00:00

Murray at The Scottish Game Fair 2026 The man behind Lock Stock Sporting The man behind Lock Stock Sporting is Murray Thomson, a passionate advocate for countryside sports and sustainable living. His shooting journey began on these very grounds, attending the fair in 2000 as a bright-eyed 13-year-old with £7 in his pocket. Drawn in by the sound of gun fire and the thrill of the “have-a-go” clay stand, that day sparked a life long love for shooting. By the age of 15, Murray had bought his first shotgun and was learning not just the sport but the responsibility and ...

Murray Thomson – A passionate advocate for countryside sports and sustainable living2026-07-15T11:27:48+00:00

Get to know Calton, our official wealth management partner

2026-05-15T15:53:31+00:00

We caught up with Tom Ham, founder and CEO of Calton, the financial planning and investment management firm who join the GWCT Scottish Game Fair as official wealth management partner. What does the Scottish Game Fair mean to you? Sharp-eyed attendees will recognise Calton from recent fairs and I’m delighted that we’re growing our presence this year. The Fair is a wonderful annual opportunity to catch up with people and forge new connections in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere. I founded Calton as a financial firm built on personal relationships and long-term thinking. Both of these ...

Get to know Calton, our official wealth management partner2026-05-15T15:53:31+00:00

Enhancing Country Living Through Bespoke Design 

2026-06-17T14:16:19+00:00

Country homes offer space, setting and character, but they do not always make the most of how people want to live today.  At Mozolowski & Murray, we create bespoke glass and timber extensions, orangeries, conservatories, garden rooms, windows and doors that help homeowners enjoy more light, better flow and a stronger connection to the landscape around them.  What sets our approach apart is that every project is individually designed, manufactured in Scotland by our in-house specialist team and installed as part of one fully managed service.  That means no off-the-shelf solutions, no disjointed process, and no compromise between beauty, practicality and performance.  For country living, that matters. Whether ...

Enhancing Country Living Through Bespoke Design 2026-06-17T14:16:19+00:00

Peter MacQueen’s Mission to Save Scotland’s Native Breeds 

2026-06-03T10:47:44+00:00

Up on his Argyll croft near Oban, the morning routine is already underway - feeding the sheep, checking the cows and getting the dogs out for a run.  For Peter MacQueen, broadcaster, author and a leading voice at the 2026 Scottish Game Fair, this isn’t just home. It’s where his daily work begins.  Alongside him are three familiar figures: Flòraidh the Westie, Peigi the Dandie Dinmont and Sùla the Scottish Deerhound. Together, they’ve become central to Peter’s growing mission to bring Scotland’s native dog breeds back into everyday life.  “I’ve always been a dog man at heart,” he says. “Just like most people you’ll meet at the Fair.”  After his Westie, Seòras, passed away ...

Peter MacQueen’s Mission to Save Scotland’s Native Breeds 2026-06-03T10:47:44+00:00

NFU Mutual: Supporting Communities Through the Charitable Trust and Agency Giving Fund 

2026-04-17T13:36:42+00:00

For more than a century, NFU Mutual has been committed to supporting rural communities, championing local causes, and helping those who rely on vital front‑line services. As a purpose‑led, member‑focussed organisation, this commitment shines through two key charitable initiatives: the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust and the NFU Mutual Agency Giving Fund. What is the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust Established in 1998, the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust is one of the main ways the business supports national charities working to protect and strengthen rural life. Each year, the Trust provides significant funding to organisations tackling some of the most pressing challenges ...

NFU Mutual: Supporting Communities Through the Charitable Trust and Agency Giving Fund 2026-04-17T13:36:42+00:00

Kronch Four Nations Gundog Captains Announced

2026-07-15T11:29:57+00:00

The countdown is on for one of the standout attractions of the summer as the Kronch Four Nations Gundog Competition returns to the GWCT Scottish Game Fair. Bringing together top handlers from across Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, the competition promises a fantastic showcase of skill, teamwork and exceptional dog work. We are delighted to announce this year’s team captains—each highly respected within the gundog community and bringing a wealth of experience to their respective teams. kronch Four Nations Gundog Competition 2026 Captains: Representing Ireland is William Megaughin Widely known as “Wee Willie.” William began training dogs in 1987 and quickly ...

Kronch Four Nations Gundog Captains Announced2026-07-15T11:29:57+00:00

Just some of the working dogs you’re likely to see at The Scottish Game Fair

2026-06-15T10:30:49+00:00

Plenty of dogs are brought along to The Scottish Game Fair. It's an excellent place to socialise puppies and there's plenty of gundogs to watch being put through their paces (paws?) in the form of gundog trials like the Kronch Four Nations International Gundog Challenge, all age spaniel tests, all age retriever tests and junior handler competitions (read our full list of gundog competitions here.) So which gundogs are you like to see and what are their characteristics? Labradors Labrador are one of the most popular gundog breeds, valued for their intelligence, versatility, and reliable temperament. Originating from Newfoundland, labradors were ...

Just some of the working dogs you’re likely to see at The Scottish Game Fair2026-06-15T10:30:49+00:00

NFU Mutual Partnership with The GWCT Scottish Game Fair 2026

2026-05-15T15:53:58+00:00

NFU Mutual has been part of Scotland’s communities for generations - supporting farms, small enterprises, larger commercial businesses, and personal customers alike. With local Agencies across the country and a deep connection to rural industries, our commitment to Scotland’s people and businesses is at the heart of everything we do. It’s one of the many reasons why our partnership with the GWCT Scottish Game Fair continues to feel so natural.  This year marks our 8th consecutive year sponsoring the Fair and we’re proud to return as the Exclusive Insurance Partner for 2026. Being involved in events that champion Scotland’s countryside, its makers, its businesses, and its communities is ...

NFU Mutual Partnership with The GWCT Scottish Game Fair 20262026-05-15T15:53:58+00:00

Four Nations Retriever Judges 2026 Announced

2026-07-15T11:30:47+00:00

We are delighted to welcome two highly respected figures in the gundog world as Retriever Judges for this year’s Four Nations at Scone Palace — Donald (Donnie) Leitch of Scotland and Michael Jones of Wales. Between them, they bring decades of experience in training, trialling, breeding, and judging at the very highest level, both nationally and internationally. Donald Leitch has spent a lifetime immersed in shooting and gundogs, inspired by his upbringing as the son of a gamekeeper. Over nearly 30 years, he has established himself as a leading figure in retriever work. As a Panel Retriever Judge, ...

Four Nations Retriever Judges 2026 Announced2026-07-15T11:30:47+00:00

Ready, set, go at this year’s Scottish Game Fair

2026-03-25T14:18:44+00:00

Just 100 days to go—fun for the whole family awaits! The countdown is officially on, with just 100 days to go until Scotland’s most exciting family-friendly summer event is back. The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair returns to the magnificent grounds of Scone Palace this July (3-5), offering families a jam-packed day out for every generation. Bringing together outdoor adventure, countryside traditions and hands-on experiences, this event is great for everyone, from mums and dads to grandparents and the youngest members of the family. Whether it’s discovering new skills, watching thrilling arena displays or simply enjoying ...

Ready, set, go at this year’s Scottish Game Fair2026-03-25T14:18:44+00:00

Kronch Four Nations Spaniel Judges Announced

2026-07-15T11:32:41+00:00

The Kronch Four Nations Spaniels Competition is a high-level team gundog event held as part of the Scottish Game Fair, where top working dogs from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales compete under UK Kennel Club rules. Each national team, selected by captains rather than open entry, includes three spaniels (alongside retrievers for the overall event), and both individual and team performances are scored to determine winners. What will the Kronch Four Nations Spaniel Judges be assessing: How effectively each dog and handler performs on real working tasks in a simulated shooting environment. They watch for qualities such as the dog’s ...

Kronch Four Nations Spaniel Judges Announced2026-07-15T11:32:41+00:00

How to train your dog like a gun dog, with Mordor Gundogs

2026-07-15T11:33:46+00:00

Mordor Gundogs, renowned for its expertise in training and showcasing exceptional gundogs, is set to make a triumphant return to the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Scottish Game Fair, which takes place from Friday 3 to Saturday 5 July at Scone Palace, Perthshire. Ahead of the show, we caught up with Charlie Thorburn, owner of Mordor Gundogs and Head Trainer, Ash Cunliffe for their top tips on training your dog to be as obedient as a gun dog. Led by an expert team, Mordor Gundogs offers a wealth of knowledge and experience in professional training for pet and working dogs ...

How to train your dog like a gun dog, with Mordor Gundogs2026-07-15T11:33:46+00:00

Let’s Talk Scurry

2026-07-15T11:34:45+00:00

Scurries are an exciting way to showcase a dog's retrieving skills in a competitive setting, making them an ideal introduction to Gundog competitions. Scurries at The GWCT Scottish Game Fair These events are straightforward and accessible, typically requiring participants to simply show up, pay a nominal fee, and compete. The format is uncomplicated: a blank shot is fired to signal the start, and the timer begins when the dog crosses the starting line to retrieve a dummy, stopping once they return. This simplicity allows anyone, regardless of their dog's experience level or breed, to participate. Many newcomers have discovered that ...

Let’s Talk Scurry2026-07-15T11:34:45+00:00

The Future of Field Sports: Focusing on Junior Generations 

2026-03-05T10:17:29+00:00

Field sports in the UK and Ireland continue to thrive thanks to passionate young handlers who dedicate their time to training, competition, and countryside traditions. Developing Young Talent in Field Sports At just 16 years old, Conan Bell is already a well-known figure in the Gundog Scene, earning the nickname “Nice Bell” for his gentlemanly demeanor in the sport. Growing up alongside his father Oliver Bell's dogs, an active member of the Ireland team, Conan has developed a deep connection to the field. In 2023, he showcased his skills with his own trained dog, Bru, winning first place in the Scottish Game Fairs Junior Handler Competition. ...

The Future of Field Sports: Focusing on Junior Generations 2026-03-05T10:17:29+00:00

Get Ready for the Fishing Season 2026

2026-03-05T10:00:13+00:00

The new fishing season is fast approaching, and there’s no better time to make sure you’re fully prepared for your first cast of the year. Whether you’re planning salmon fishing on Scotland’s iconic rivers, heading out after trout, or simply getting back onto the water after winter, a little preparation goes a long way. That’s why we’ve created a free Fishing Season Preparation Guide — designed to help anglers start the season informed, organised, and ready. Download Your Free Fishing Season Preparation Guide Start the Season with Confidence Every angler knows that rules, seasons and regulations ...

Get Ready for the Fishing Season 20262026-03-05T10:00:13+00:00

2026 Scottish Venison Cookery Theatre Chefs Announced

2026-07-15T13:37:16+00:00

Get ready to be inspired by an exceptional line-up of culinary talent at The Scottish Venison Cookery Theatre, in association with The Scotsman. Across the weekend, our chefs will bring venison to life through live demonstrations and engaging masterclasses, sharing their creativity, expertise, and passion for this outstanding ingredient. Discover the faces behind the flavours and the chefs you won’t want to miss in 2026. More On The Scottish Venison Cookery Theatre, in association with The Scotsman The 2026 Chef Line-Up Amy Rankine Amy Rankine is a passionate forager based in central ...

2026 Scottish Venison Cookery Theatre Chefs Announced2026-07-15T13:37:16+00:00

The Gundog Community – Field to Fundraising….

2026-02-18T10:44:22+00:00

Fundraising Success Stories from the UK Gundog Community The strength of the Gundog community extends far beyond the field. Across the UK, individuals involved in the sport are raising significant funds for charitable causes, united by shared values and a commitment to supporting others. Sharon Dingle of Bellspaddle Gundogs has raised more than £50,000 through a variety of fundraising initiatives. Her most recent campaign supports Keeping Abreast UK, a charity that assists women considering or undergoing reconstructive surgery following a cancer diagnosis. In partnership with Gamekeepers Goods, Sharon introduced a creatively redesigned pink training dummy, an initiative that has already ...

The Gundog Community – Field to Fundraising….2026-02-18T10:44:22+00:00

End of Shooting Season Guide

2026-02-03T12:20:33+00:00

As the shooting season comes to an end, it’s tempting to put everything away and forget about it until autumn. Guns go back in the cabinet, boots are left to dry by the door, and life slows down a little. But for anyone interested in shooting and field sports, the end of the season is actually one of the most important times of the year. What you do now — during the off-season — plays a huge role in how enjoyable, organised and stress-free the next shooting season will be. The guide is available as a free ...

End of Shooting Season Guide2026-02-03T12:20:33+00:00

2026 Countryside Calendar: A Year of Scottish Fieldsports, Wildlife and Seasonal Tradition

2026-01-20T14:58:06+00:00

Download Calendar The Scottish countryside follows its own rhythm – shaped by the seasons, the land and the sporting year. From crisp winter mornings on the hill to long summer evenings beside lochs and rivers, each month brings its own character, challenges and rewards. Our Countryside Calendar 2026 has been created to celebrate exactly that: a full year of Scottish fieldsports, wildlife, dogs and seasonal countryside life, brought together in one beautifully designed digital calendar. Available to download for free, it’s the perfect companion for anyone passionate about shooting, fishing, conservation and Scotland’s rich countryside traditions. Download Calendar ...

2026 Countryside Calendar: A Year of Scottish Fieldsports, Wildlife and Seasonal Tradition2026-01-20T14:58:06+00:00
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