The best of country LIVING

The GWCT Scottish Game Fair returns to Scone Palace Parklands, Perthshire on July 5, 6 and 7 this year.

A fantastic event celebrating conservation and the countryside, the 31st Fair is set to yet again welcome tens of thousands of visitors to the stunning grounds and will feature an impressive line-up of retailers and exhibitors, competitions and a revamped main ring programme.

Plus, there will be a plethora of country sports activities, expert coaching, demonstrations and competitions to appeal to all.

Falconry displays, fishing, gundogs, terrier racing, ferreting, clay shooting, air rifle shooting, archery, bushcraft and countryside skills and off-road driving are just some of the activities on offer.

Organisers are planning for this year’s event to be a “true celebration of the land” with a focus on food sustainability, particularly in the Fair’s popular Food Hall.

Look out for fantastic demonstrations from some of Scotland’s top chefs including Richard Dalgleish from Gleneagles and Tom Lewis of Monachyle Mhor.

Last year’s annual gathering saw 35,000 people turning up to celebrate the event’s 30th anniversary and more than 500 traders have signed up for this year’s event.

Hugo Straker, event chairman, said he was proud of its growing reputation.

“We are delighted with the staggering response we’re getting from traders this year, all of whom share our excitement about this year’s Scottish Game Fair,” he said.

“I’m proud this event improves its offering year on year, creating something that tens of thousands of visitors can enjoy.”

The 2019 event, one of the major highlights of the Perthshire calendar, is sponsored by NFU Mutual.

Proceeds will go to fund the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, which owns and manages the fair.

The independent wildlife conservation charity carries out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife and advises farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. For more details and to buy tickets, go to scottishfair.com

Whether it’s hunting, shooting, fishing or food you’re after, the Scottish Game Fair has something for everyone.

Pictures: Sandy Young/Steven Brown/Steve MacDougall. Clockwise from above: Isabella and Gregor on a vintage Land Rover; volunteer Paula Thornley with puppy Freyja; Imogen with a golden eagle.