Weston Park game fair proves a huge crowd-puller

Tens of thousands of visitors flocked to Weston Park on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border for an weekend extravaganza billed as Europe's top country sports event.

The 28th Midland Game Fair saw enthusiasts compete in more country sports grand finals than any other competition. Among the highlights were the Mitsubishi Motors World Series Championship Finals for clay shooting and gundogs.

The tournament had a new format for 2010 with the champion driving away in a new L200 Barbarian worth more than £26,000.

Working gundogs were another featured attraction at the Midland's most popular show.

And the sponsored World Series Championship, which took place at the event, attracted the UK's top gundog handlers who competed against each other for the chance to win a new Mitsubishi ASX, worth about £20,000.

There was also a "fishing village", which was co-ordinated by the expert fly fisherman Hwyel Morgan, which allowed the public to have a go at the sport for themselves.

Preparations are now already under way for next year's game fair.

This has organisers promising not only the best portfolio of contests but also the richest prize fund available anywhere in the country sports world.

A spokesman for the organisers of the highly successful event said: "The Midland Game Fair is the country's leading showcase of country sports and a true celebration of rural life.

"Renowned as the annual meeting place for country sports enthusiasts, the Midland has evolved into a comprehensive countryside event that now attracts more than 89,000 visitors.

"Throughout its growth the Midland has retained its legendary atmosphere, visitors, competitions and arena profile, making the Midland the most unforgettable in the game fair calendar.

"Whether you are at the pinnacle of your chosen sport, or have always wanted to try something new, the Midland Game Fair has it all."

By Simon Hardy