Leading brands and personalities from the world of field sports, countryside pursuits and the rural life will be at the inaugural UK Game Fair, at the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre (NAEC) Stoneleigh, from 22-24 July 2016. Launched last October to fill the void left by the failed CLA Game Fair – a loss-making show since the CLA (Country Land and Business Association) had brought the event’s management in-house in 2011 – the UK Game Fair takes place on the same showground as the famous Royal Show, which attracted over 200,000 visitors during its peak years.   

Over 100,000 visitors are expected at this exciting new three-day event, which will focus on shooting, fishing, hunting, gamekeeping, estate management, rural crafts, working dogs and food production, with celebrity chef demonstrations, tastings and competitions. 

Gun trade grandees including Beretta, Sako, Tikka, Steiner, Eley Hawk, Viking Arms and EJ Churchill have lent their support to the show – plus motor vehicle manufacturers Great Wall and Yamaha. With a tremendous variety of things to do and see during the show, it will be the showpiece event for the country pursuits community.
 
The event is organised by Blaze Publishing, which produces sports titles including Clay Shooting, Sporting Rifle, iShoot, Airgun Shooter and Bow International and runs music shows including the London Acoustic Show, the London Bass Guitar Show and the London Drum Show. 
 
Wes Stanton, owner of Blaze Publishing, said: “Our new event is designed to attract those who loved the CLA Game Fair as much as we did before its demise – and to introduce new people to rural pursuits too. Stoneleigh is a brilliant site on which to stage an outdoor show and we’re looking forward to welcoming game fair regulars and keen newcomers alike. Our ticket prices represent great value for money, for individuals, families and groups of friends alike.
 
“We’re proud to host a show that promotes all relevant aspects of rural life and the rural economy, which will be reflected in the calibre and breadth of exhibitors at the show.”
 
While specific attractions are in the process of being planned, the show will put shooting at its heart, with an extensive clay pigeon line staffed by shooting instructors as well as a busy Gunmakers’ Row. Fishing and working dog events and demonstrations will also play a key part – and there will be the chance to go off-roading in a 4X4 on a purpose-built track. 
 
Helen Woolley, CLA director general, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received following the difficult decision to end the CLA Game Fair. We are confident that former supporters and exhibitors will be well served by the existing and new events planned for summer 2016 and we wish all the events every success.”
 
The NAEC at Stoneleigh Park is no stranger to the rural economy and the agricultural industry. The site, set between Coventry and Leamington Spa and ideally served by the motorway network, is undergoing a £50m redevelopment programme which will put it at the heart of the rural economy in Great Britain. 
 
To book tickets or become an exhibitor at The UK Game Fair 2016, go to www.ukgamefair.com