Top chef Derek Patterson launched the BASC Northern Ireland Game Fair at Ballywalter House today (24 April).
The game fair, which will take place in the grounds of Ballywalter House on 2-3 May and is sponsored by Ards Tourism, looks set to attract thousands of people from across the province and further afield.
There will be a major clay shooting competition offering five high-grade shotguns as part of the prize pot. The winner of the Game Fair 2-day Challenge will take home the top prize; a 12 bore Beretta Multichoke White Onyx Sporter worth £1600. The competition is being sponsored by Maurice Brown from Field of Dreams and Donal McCloy of Guns Unlimited.
Kids under 16 get into the game fair for free and there will be plenty to keep them entertained including laser clay shooting, air rifle stands, bouncy castles, quads archery and an adventure play area.
Mums and dads, who can get 25% off their tickets by calling BASC NI in advance on 028 9260 5050, can take time to browse a wide range of stalls for clothing and equipment bargains or sample the delights in the fine food hall.
There will also be a packed main arena programme with demonstrations from John Carmichael and his team from the Northern Ireland School of Falconry, the ‘Ultimate Countryman’ Chris Green and sheepdog trialling with Eric Barfoot and his team of young handlers. Other events over the two day game fair include game cookery demonstrations with top chef Derek Patterson, working dog scurries, fly fishing tuition, clay shooting competitions, a team chase and international mounted games.
BASC NI director, Roger Pollen, said: “I am delighted at the depth of cross-party political support shown to BASC and the Northern Ireland Game Fair. I also very much appreciate the support given by our celebrity chef and hunter-gatherer, Derek Patterson and by one of the Province’s greatest off-road drivers, David Corr. The scene is now set for what promises to be one of the best Game Fairs for many years.”
ENDS