December 2008 Volume 1, Issue 1
Emerald Newsletter
All-New Irish National Country Fair INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Announced
CAI Board Elections................ 1 Casting For Recovery .............. 3
The all-new Irish National Country Fair will be staged in the magnificent grounds of Ballinlough Castle, County Westmeath over the weekend of 18 & 19 July 2009.
Shine a Light on Poaching ...... 3
Organisers, Derek Lutton and Bill Beckett are no strangers to organising big events having organised the hugely successful National Countrysports Fair in Northern Ireland for the last fourteen years.
Fishing Roundup .................... 6
The encouragement and local support that Bill and Derek have received from sportsmen in the Republic to run a quality event there has spurred them on to organise this fair south of the border. This will be a sister event to the National Countrysports Fair at Moira Demesne and it is already shaping up to be a big country sports weekend in the South, with a huge amount of interest already generated.
Christmas Game...................... 9
Working with the Nugent family who have lived at Ballinlough Castle for almost 400 years, the duo have already invested eighteen months in the planning of the Irish National Country Fair.
The Vanishing Goose .............. 12
Making Most of Your Game .... 5 Beagling Update...................... 7 Spotlight on Belle Isle ............. 8 Naul Clay Pigeon Club ............ 10 Wanted .................................... 10 CA UK Update ......................... 10 Presentation to Ken Taylor ..... 11 Heard on the Grapevine ......... 13 Sporting Oddities .................... 14 Courtlough ............................. 16
(Continued on page 4)
A MESSAGE FROM LYALL PLANT
A
s another year comes to an end we cannot help but look back and analyse what has been happening in our economy and look ahead to the challenges that will face all of us involved in country sports and our rural communities in 2009. Both the UK and Irish Governments have d evel o p ed di f f eren t strategies for their economies with the aim of bringing us out of recession. These strategies have been far ranging and are unprecedented in our history and will have different impacts North and South of the Border. The UK Government has reduced VAT by 2.5% to try and stimulate growth among small businesses many of whom are rural enterprises trying to survive in these difficult times, while the Irish Government has increased VAT and taxes to raise the necessary finance in order to reduce borrowing. We will have to wait and see which strategy will work best. We have two vacancies arising on our Board in 2009 and I would urge any member that can bring relevant skills and support to CAI to apply for a nomination form now (see below).
Minister of Justice‘s recent statement on handguns and we are taking his comments very seriously indeed. However, the new firearms licensing procedures are welcomed by all shooting organisations and will bring a level of security showing that the Minister wants to instil confidence in the public. The Department of Justice Firearms Consultative Panel are still waiting on the publication of the Miscellaneous Provisions Bill and we as a group are not aware of its actual content as yet. In Northern Ireland we are awaiting the outcome of the Review of the Wildlife Order and the Proposal to ban Lead Shot from September 2009. It is our intention to publish an information leaflet prior to the 2009 season for our members on the aspects of when and where to use non lead shot. With the Northern Ireland Executive now in place and the prospect that Policing and Justice will be devolved to Stormont , the opportunity arises for a combined submission from all Country Sports Organisations that will allow for Young Shots to carry out country sports. Please check our website regularly for all our latest news and updates. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our membership, for your continued support over the past twelve months. Together we can make a difference by ensuring we can continue to carry out our country sports activities, as well as fighting for our rural communities and what they value most. With very best wishes for the Festive Season
We have been inundated with calls and emails regarding the
Lyall
ELECTIONS TO THE BOARD OF COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE IRELAND shaping the organisation‘s future work?
midnight on 7th March 2009.
Any member of CAI is entitled to stand, For further information and nomination whether you are based in Northern Ireland forms, please telephone: NI: 028 9263 9911 or the Republic of Ireland. or R of I: 01690 3610, option 5. CAI would encourage any member who feels they can contribute to the work of the organisation to consider standing for Are you interested in becoming a member election to the Board. There are two of the Countryside Alliance Ireland (CAI) vacancies to be filled and nomination forms Board? Would you like to play your part in for candidates must be returned by
NI office:
THERE ARE TWO VACANCIES ON THE CAI BOARD TO BE FILLED IN 2009
Countryside Alliance Ireland, The Courtyard, Larchfield Estate, Balliesmills Road, Lisburn, County Down, BT27 6XJ Tel: 028 9263 9911 Fax: 028 9263 9922 Email: info@caireland.org Web: www.caireland.org
RoI Office:
Countryside Alliance Ireland, Courtlough Shooting Grounds, Courtlough, Balbriggan, Co Dublin Tel: 01 6903610 and select the relevant option Fax: 048 9263 9922 Email: info@caireland.org Web: www.caireland.org
Presidents:
Northern Ireland—Mr Bert Carlisle, Vice President: The Lord Dunleath Republic of Ireland—Lord Waterford
Chairman:
Mr Paul Cran, Vice Chairman: Mr John Clarke
Board Members:
Mr Harry Boyle, Mr Richard Johnson, Ms Madeleine Kelly, Mr John McBride Lord Meath, Mr Johnny Vance,
Chief Executive:
Mr Lyall Plant, General Manager: Mrs Ashley Graham, Membership Administration, Mrs Liz Brown and Mr David Agnew
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SHINE A LIGHT ON POACHING
EXCEPTIONAL YEAR FOR CFR
carried out if someone suspects a wildlife crime is being committed. For further information on reporting wildlife crime visit our website at www.caireland.org BE VIGILANT BE AWARE AND BE SAFE
C
o unt rysi de A ll ian ce I rel an d in partnership with the British Deer Society (Northern Ireland) and The Wild Deer Association of Ireland (Republic of Ireland) have launched a campaign to ―Shine a Light on Poaching‖. The word poaching has for many generations been associated with the illegal taking of pheasant or salmon. In terms of deer, it can mean unnecessary injury or suffering to the animal, or even worse, death or injury to a person, as this illegal and dangerous activity usually involves the incorrect use of firearms, used in unsafe conditions, with little regard for the safety of others. Recent reports of poaching both in Northern Ireland and the Republic have shown that this illegal activity has been on the increase and through our joint campaign we aim to raise awareness and the procedures to be
Casting for Recovery, the unique fly fishing programme for women who have, or have had, breast cancer, has just completed its first full year of retreats in West Sussex, Devon, Powys and Northern Ireland and next year they plan to hold additional retreats in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland. Feedback to the organisers from the women involved has been incredibly positive where the blend of good company and gentle exercise offered by casting helps the way in which sufferers deal with this disease. More information on Casting for Recovery is available at www.castingforrecovery.org.uk and the organisers hope that more women can take advantage of the scheme in 2009
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ALL NEW COUNTRY FAIR FOR WESTMEATH CONT FROM FRONT PAGE member of the family to enjoy.
The Fair organisers have secured the services of some of Europe‘s best demonstration teams and will link in with local clubs, sponsors, and a number of major Irish sporting associations to stage the event in this 300 acre estate which is located on the main Ardee to Mullingar Road, just two miles from the village of Clonmellon.
The organisers can be contacted at info@irishcountryfair.com or by telephone on +44 28 4483 2775
The site at Ballinlough Castle has been chosen for a number of reasons, not least of all because it is serviced by a wonderful road system, is accessible from all parts of the country and there is a long-established tradition of country sports in the area. Interest in the event is significant with a number of local and cross-channel exhibitors having already booked trade space. Interested traders should contact the organisers directly for trade packs which are now ready.
Speaking about the new fair, Bill Beckett said it was the natural progression for his organisation whose success in Northern Ireland has been well documented. He went on to say, ―Visitors to Ireland's National Country Fair will be spoilt for choice with the variety and quality of stands we have attending the event at Ballinlough Castle. Lined up are not only the best Irish suppliers and producers but also the best from the game fair scene in Britain. Our years of experience in organising game and country fairs and visiting the largest events in UK and Europe will be brought to this event which truly is the place to shop for all things country‖. Like its Northern Ireland counterpart, the Irish National Country Fair will have a very distinctive family emphasis with something for every 4
The simple layout of the Irish National Country Fair will also make it easy for families to stroll around, visiting the stands, attractions, displays and competitions. The hard road system at Ballinlough Castle makes walking around most pleasurable. Attractions will be located in themed areas such as Shooter's Row with its displays of guns and shooting equipment retailers, game and rearing equipment, gundog training aids, decoying equipment and a quality selection of country clothing and footwear. For the angler, Fisherman's Row is a ―must see‖ with the top manufacturers represented. Game, sea and coarse fishing equipment, fishing holidays, boats and boating equipment, fly dressing materials and displays and a plethora of special offers on rods, reels, nets, waders and tackle will all be there. The Ballinlough Food Festival is another attraction not to be missed with over thirty local and cross-channel food producers housed in a specially designed food festival, complete with kitchen and game cookery demonstrations from professional chefs. The Country Crafts Village brings together for the first time a range of hand crafted items and traditional Irish trades such as farriers, wood turners, basket and coracle makers. Add to all this the ancillary stands and a superb Children‘s Area and it all makes for a great weekend of competitions, shopping and entertainment for all the family. Competitions include the All Ireland International Gundog Challenge, spaniel and retriever working tests, terrier and lurcher events, horses and hound events, angling workshops, casting and accuracy competitions, a comprehensive clay pigeon shooting layout, archery, air guns and falconry events. The main arena will be up to the quality that we have come to expect at events organised by Bill Beckett and Derek Lutton. Commentary will be provided by some of Ireland‘s leading sportsmen and women. Countryside Alliance Ireland is delighted to be working with the organisers and have designated this event as their main membership event in the Republic. More details about this will be released in the next newsletter along with the special competitions laid on for CAI members. The Irish National Countrysports Fair website is located at www.irishcountryfair.com
CHANGE OF POLICY ON THE CARRYING FIREARMS members to have a choice of Ferry operators when they wish to travel to the UK. Members are also reminded that they must inform the operator when they are booking their passage that they intend to carry firearms and make themselves known when they arrive at the terminal for boarding.
We wish to inform our members that following representations from Countryside Alliance Ireland, Irish Ferries have changed their policy on the carriage of firearms on their routes to the UK.
SUPPORT YOU LOCAL SHOOTING GROUNDS AND TARGET CLUBS
Countryside Alliance Ireland would like to thank Irish Ferries for this change in policy as it will benefit all responsible firearms holders that wish to use their service.
This change in policy means that firearms are now allowed to be transported as long as they are locked in a vehicle and out of sight of the general public. We must emphasise the carriage of firearms will only be allowed in vehicles and is not applicable to foot passengers.
No ammunition will be allowed on board any vessel
This change in policy now allows our
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR GAME Autumn is one of the best times of year to enjoy delicious, seasonal foods and top of the list is Wild Irish Game. November kicks off the new partridge and pheasant season, so now is the time to think about including all these delicious wild game flavours in your cooking or looking out for game on the menu when you are eating out. You will find an exciting range of convenient cuts from your local butcher and in most supermarkets so now you can get creative in the kitchen and treat family and friends by making game a regular feature on the table and your weekly shop!
As the Credit Crunch grip on our economy tightens Countryside Alliance Ireland urge you to support your local shooting grounds and target clubs throughout Ireland and make use of their facilities in order that they survive and are available to us in future years. Many Shooting Grounds are offering special deals to clubs and syndicates over the winter months and at the minimum of cost. Courtlough Shooting Grounds for example are offering 50 clays and cartridges for only â‚Ź27 per person and a fantastic 100 clays and cartridges for only â‚Ź50 per person. This is exceptional value and is ideal for a Christmas day out with all your friends. To book at Courtlough Phone 01-8413096.
Also new from Game-to-Eat is a stunning recipe booklet which is out now. This year Sophie Wright, member of the Culinary Academy Team, has developed a range of delicious, mouth-watering recipes to excite your taste buds and provide inspirational cookery ideas for any occasion. The booklet includes recipes to impress, like Pan Seared Pheasant with Bacon and Figs. Tasty Spiced Plum and Venison Salad, for a lighter option, or for that family favourite to please a hungry crowd, the Game Pie is perfect. This free recipe leaflet is available from Countryside Alliance Ireland. To obtain your copy send an A5 Stamped Addressed Envelope (55c for RoI and 1st Class NI) to our Courtlough Office (RoI Members) or Larchfield Office (NI Members) and we will send you one out by return.
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END OF SEASON FISHING ROUNDUP BY LAWRENCE FINNEY
N
ow that the game fishing season has come to an end for 2008 it is a time to reflect on how this year‘s season faired.
The fishing on the Loughs has been near on disastrous due to the torrential down pours we have received over the months, resulting in mass flows of fresh water entering the Loughs bringing the water levels to such a height that some jetties have been overwhelmed preventing boats from being launched, and putting the fish off. May did not get much of a respite from the weather, with a noticeable drop in the catches especially on Erne and Melvin. Rivers did not escape the deluges and the likes of the River Lagan was constantly seen in spate during the season. One Lough that stands out for me is Lough Sheelin, it is steadily progressing in its recovery form the years of abuse from pig slurry, and the Lough Sheelin Trout Preservation Society has done tremendous work over the past few years to bring this magnificent Lough back from the brink. This has been mainly due to the guidance of Eamon Ross the club Chairman organising the yearly boat competition that raises greatly needed funds to enable the continuing restoration work on the feeder streams and the restocking programme. The River Mourne still suffers from unnecessary fish kills from the Hydro-electric generator at Sion Mills. Historical archived information is being gathered and collated this year to enable a review of fish kills over the past few years and hopefully a report will be produced quantifying the substantial losses of fish and disruption to one of Ireland‘s premier fisheries. Anyone interested in the preservation of fish stocks in areas where Hydro – electric schemes are being proposed can visit the fish tech report web site to see the latest report on safe passage of migratory fish. The Loughs Agency Angling Fair in Prehen saw modifications to the floor lay out in the marquees enabling visitors greater ease around the fishing stands. The guest fly tiers were situated in a dedicated marquee that enabled the public to watch them demonstrating their fantastic skills. The highlight of the fly tying show was the presence of Ted Malone accompanied by his good lady tying his version of the daddy long legs. A.P.G.A.I. (Ireland) carried out casting tuition on the lawns at the car park and Arthur Greenwood A.P.G.A.I. fly dressing instructor demonstrated his magnificent skills and tying his Shuck Raider. The Loughs Agency carried out several festivals during the year, The Carlingford Salt Water Festival, the Pike Festival at Baronscourt, and the last of the season the Salt Water Festival at Ballykelly, which produced an astounding number of fish on the Sunday competition. All these events were well attended and expert tuition was available from tying rigs to beach casting, fly dressing to fly casting. Not forgetting the staff of the Loughs Agency that thrilled the audiences with their presentations and knowledge of river life including the life cycles of fish and invertebrates.
6
The Loughs Agency certainly put a lot of hard work into this year‘s events resulting in magnificent weekends for all anglers and visitors. Lionel Knobbs and his dedicated team should be congratulated for all the work they have carried out during this season. The game fairs this year were at the mercy of the weather yet again with Ballywalter and Shane‘s Castle having more that their fair share. But this did not deter the public and especially the demonstrators in the main arena. Glenda Powell of the Blackwater Lodge and A.P.G.A.I. Instructor gave her usual expert demonstrations on how to cast the double handed Salmon rod at Shane‘s and Birr Castle. Brookhall Trout Fishery must be one of the best success stories of the year for fishing. Owners of the fishery Kenny, Cathryne and Marty have totally transformed this fishery into a fisherman‘s paradise. Manicured lawns offer perfectly safe access all round the lake and there are picnic tables, shelters and resting styles, not to mention the fishing lodge, tea room and yes even a rest room, for the weary angler. No wonder they hosted this year‘s first ever Northern Ireland Casting for Recovery. ―A perfect venue and week end for this event‖ was the comment made Sue Hunter and Sue Shaw of Casting for Recovery. A sadder note is pollution and poaching which is still a major factor for the loughs and rivers around the island of Ireland. With incidents such as the massive pollution incident on the Six Mile Water earlier in the year, anglers are advised to check water courses even during the closed season as incidents still occur during the closed season. Lastly a topic that is close to my own heart is A.P.G.A.I. (Ireland). A.P.G.A.I.(Ireland) has now been recognised by the Central Fisheries Board as the qualified body for game angling instruction and has been accredited to level 6 (Advanced Certificate) by the Further Education and Training Awards Council. Workshops will come into place early in 2009 for the whole of Ireland. A.P.G.A.I. will be at the Ballywalter and Moira Game Fairs next year, where expert casting and fly tying instruction and demonstrations will be available from the instructors. To name just a few who will be there; Tom Woods, Sam Andrews, Joe Stitt, Patrick Trotter, Liam Duffy, Arthur Greenwood, Lawrence Finney and Pat Mulholland. Congratulations to Mark Corps, angling advisor to the C.F.B who passed his single handed casting qualification in October and is the newest member to A.P.G.A.I. (Ireland). Also a big welcome to Ted Malone who was made an Honorary A.P.G.A.I. member in recognition of his immense contribution to game angling over the years. Lawrence Finney
BEAGLING UPDATE beagles, belonging to Dick Wolsey of Bangor. Although the Sunnylands pack originated in 1915, they were disbanded at the outbreak of World War Two, and it was only as a result of Terence and Dick enjoying the 1958 Ballygrainey Hunt so much that they decided to set about reforming the Sunnyland Beagles Hunt Club. Fifty years on, the pack still regularly meets at Ballygrainey. In the evening 150 members and supporters of the Club (including several of the local Craigantlet landowners) enjoyed a celebration dinner in Cultra Manor House at which toasts were raised to the hare and the hounds. This season will feature a number of other special meets in various parts of the country. These include a visit by the Per Ardua Beagles from Lincolnshire to Counties Armagh & Louth in early January, and a beagling festival to be held in County Westmeath later in the month, hosted by the Balgarrett Beagles, which will have two visiting packs – the Goldburn from County Dublin and the Stokesley Farmers‘ Beagles from the north of England, who will hunt the IMBA National Meet. This event will be closely followed by the well-renowned annual festival of beagling hosted by the Woodrock & Blackwater Valley Beagles in County Cork in early February. As yet there has been no indication as to whether Minister Gormley will grant a licence to permit beagling in the Republic in the month of March. Last year‘s early termination of the season brought much frustration and so packs are lobbying their political representatives to try to gain an extension this time. Liz Brown
B
eagling continues to grow in strength in Ireland, with a new pack based in the west of County Limerick, the Cragg Beagles, being welcomed to probationary membership of the Irish Masters of Beagles Association at their AGM, held in early summer.
Hon. Sec. Hunting Association of Northern Ireland
The new pack was greatly facilitated by the Pallaskenry Beagles who agreed to the use of some of the Pallaskenry‘s former hunt country, and also by many other old-established packs which have drafted hounds to the newcomers, enabling the Cragg Beagles to commence the season with a viable pack. Indeed this pack has already enjoyed some success in the show rings, having won several rosettes during the summer. Also at the AGM, representatives of beagle packs from all over Ireland enjoyed an illustrated talk by Prof. Ian Montgomery about the Irish Hare and the research into the species being conducted throughout the Island by the Quercus group from QUB. The audience welcomed the Professor‘s assessment of the impact of hunting on the hare population as being so low as to be statistically irrelevant. Hunting is now in full swing, with packs reporting the usual variety of scenting conditions in the early stages of the season, as the weather and ground conditions changed. The Sunnyland Beagles in Northern Ireland recently enjoyed a day of celebrations to mark an unbroken 50 seasons of beagling in the Craigantlet area of County Down. The day started with a Service of Thanksgiving for Beagling, held in the historic Kilmore Parish Church in the Folk Museum at Cultra, followed by a meet on the adjoining lands at Ballygrainey Road. This special meet commemorated a hunt conducted by Terence Grainger with a small pack, comprising just two couples of 7
BELLE ISLE SCHOOL OF COOKERY importance of seasonal cooking. These still form the basis of her approach to food today. Liz is one of the new generations of young Irish food ambassadors, concentrating on Irish food with a lighter and more modern twist. Now in her early thirties, Liz learnt her skills and developed her unique style during many years cooking throughout Europe. As a tutor, this means she knows all the pitfalls and how to get around them, as well as understanding any slight feelings of trepidation that new guests may be experiencing. While working as a chef in Northern Italy, Liz discovered that the true essence of successful cooking lies in simplicity, so well demonstrated by the Italians in their vast repertoire of small, simple yet delicious courses produced at every meal.
Belle Isle Accommodation In 1992 the Garden House (now the cookery school) was the first cottage to be converted as a holiday house. The conversion of the Castle wing, which sleeps 14, was completed in 1994, followed by the Coach house in 1996 and the Courtyard in 1998. The Courtyard was awarded ―Best Cottage‖ in Northern Ireland for 2001 and ―Best Cottage‖ in County Fermanagh for 2002 by Rural Cottage Holidays Ltd, and won the British Airways Award for Best Accommodation in 1998. The Courtyard was Highly Commended by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors for Best Regeneration Project in 1999. As early as 1995 during the initial development of the courtyard a cookery school was considered as part of the plan. In 2003 the Estate found the perfect person to run the school. Having worked as a freelance chef throughout Europe, Liz Moore returned to Ireland 7 years ago to work. She found herself cooking one weekend for the Duke of Abercorn at Barons Court, his permanent residence in neighbouring County Tyrone. The celebrated chef Michel Roux was staying at Barons Court at the time and realising Liz‘s potential said to the Duke – ―if you don‘t make use of Liz, then I will take her to work with me in England!‖ The idea of a cookery school was revived, the suggestion was put to Liz and the rest is history. The cookery school won four marketing awards. The Belle Isle School of Cookery opened its doors in November 2003 in the grounds of Belle Isle Castle on the magnificent Belle Isle Estate in County Fermanagh. This purpose-built state of the art cookery school, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, plays an important part in the life of this holiday destination and vibrant working Estate. The Walled Garden, which has lain dormant for a number of years, is coming to life again. Fruit, flowers, vegetables and herbs are being grown but instead of going to the ‗big house‘ it now makes its way to the cookery school. Chef Liz Moore Belle Isle Chef, Liz Moore, exudes warmth and enthusiasm in the kitchen. Her passion for anything and everything to do with food began early in childhood, making experimental cakes for her patient and appreciative parents. It‘s a passion that she shares with her good friend Michel Roux, a firm supporter of both Liz and the Belle Isle School of Cookery. Growing up in rural Ireland with a garden full of fruit, vegetables and herbs instilled in Liz an early appreciation of good quality organic produce and the 8
Liz brings a fresh approach to teaching cookery skills. Her expertise and easy-going manner combined with a wonderful sense of humour make for fun-filled sessions in the cookery school. Liz didn‘t choose cooking – cooking chose Liz. Now however, she will admit that she can‘t get enough of it. Her insatiable appetite for food knowledge is both inspiring and rewarding. Courses Courses run throughout the year and you can choose from a 1 day or 2-3 day residential course. Courses are very varied and very hands-on with the emphasis on fun for the beginner or the more experienced cook. As well as day courses, during the year there are a number of demonstrations also running. This is a chance for you to sit and relax and let Liz do all the work. Shop The cookery school shop is open all year round. For further information contact Belle Isle on 0044 28 6638 7231
Countryside Alliance Ireland Members get 10% off the cost of accommodation when booked with a course
VENISON EN CROUTE Serves 6 Ingredients 500g/18 oz puff pastry 600g/1 lb. 5 oz loin of venison, trimmed 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 shallots, finely chopped 1 clove garlic 50g/2 oz fresh breadcrumbs 200g/7 oz field mushrooms Salt/pepper Handful fresh parsley 50g/2 oz butter Olive oil 6 crepes or thin pancakes To glaze: One egg beaten For the sauce: 2 shallots/1 onion, finely chopped 25g/1oz smoked bacon lardoons ½ bottle red wine 2 tbsp. red currant jelly 2 tbsp. apple jelly 600ml/1 pt good game stock 50ml/2 floz Marsala 110g/4 oz cold butter 2 tsp. raspberry vinegar Method Preheat oven 220C/425F/Gas 7. Heat the butter and add the shallots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes then add the finely
chopped mushrooms. Cook for 5-6 minutes, add the garlic and stir well. Season. Transfer to a food processor and processor for 1 minute. Reheat in the same pan and cook for a further 2-3 minutes or until the liquid evaporates from the pan. Pour a little olive oil into a separate frying pan and fry the breadcrumbs until golden. Add to the mushroom mixture along with some parsley and if it needs it, a squeeze of lemon juice. Allow to cool. Season the venison and brown all over in olive oil and allow to cool. To assemble the dish: Roll out the pastry. Make it is big enough to wrap the meat in. Place the meat on a layer of crepes. Brush all over with the mustard. Spoon a layer of the mushrooms on top. Neatly wrap the crepes round the venison (trimming where necessary) and then wrap the pastry around the whole meat parcel, folding in the sides to form a neat parcel. Seal the sides with egg wash and then brush all over with egg also. Chill until 20 minutes before cooking. Cook for 20-25minutes or until golden brown. Venison can be served quite rare. For the sauce: Sauté the shallots in a little butter, add the
bacon and cook until they start to brown. Add the wine and reduce by ½. Then add the stock and again reduce by half. Stir in the red currant and apple jelly. Season if necessary and strain into a clean pot. Finally pour in the Marsala and whisk in the cold butter, adding the raspberry vinegar just before serving. To serve, slice into thick pieces and serve with the piping hot sauce. Belle Isle offers specialised courses and events throughout the year with wine producers and wine ‘personalities' giving talks and tastings. Wine and good food go hand in hand. Belle Isle works in partnership with the leading wine experts of Direct Wine Shipments. Belle Isle also offers specific courses where wine will be the main focus and attention, with winemakers and wine 'personalities' giving winespecific talks at Belle Isle. At Belle Isle we can also offer a personalised wine-specific programme for you and your friends/colleagues/clients. All you need is a minimum of 8 likeminded people; we will provide everything else
CHRISTMAS PHEASANT AND POTATO PIE WITH CRANBERRIES Serves 8 Ingredients 500g/8 oz puff pastry 2 pheasant breasts 720g/1½ lb peeled potatoes, thinly sliced 150g/5 oz butter 3 shallots, finely chopped 75g/3 oz cooked chestnuts 25g/1 oz cranberries 2 egg yolks, lightly beaten 250ml/8 floz whipping cream Salt & pepper Method Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. In a large frying pan, melt half the butter over a low heat and cook the potatoes until just tender, do not allow them to brown or they will stick to the pan. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Transfer to a dish and allow to cool.
Cut the pheasant into thin strips. Add the rest of the butter to the pan and sweat the shallots gently with a little salt. Add the pheasant and cook over a medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Cool and mix gently in with the potatoes, chestnuts and cranberries. Season well. Roll our half the pastry into a circle about 36cm in diameter and place onto a lightly buttered baking tray or baking mat. Brush the edges lightly with some egg yolk and then spoon the pheasant and potato mixture onto the middle of the pastry disc. Roll the rest of the pastry into a slightly larger circle and use it to form a lid for the pie. Crimp the edges of the pie inwards to seal it. Cut a circle from the middle using a scone cutter but do not remove it. Brush the entire pie with egg yolk. Bake the pie for 50 minutes but do not allow to brown too quickly (cover with tin
foil, if this is the case). Heat the cream gently and remove the lie from the oven. Remove the small lid in the middle and pour in the hot cream. Return to the oven for 10 minutes. Serve hot in slices with cranberry sauce. THE NEXT GAME COOKERY COURSES ARE BEING HELD AT BELLE ISLE ARE 23rd to 25th Oct 2009 20th November 2009 27th to 29th Nov 2009. Book your Course Now! Phone NI: 028 6638 7231 RoI: 048 6638 7231
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SPOTLIGHT ON NAUL CLAY PIGEON CLUB clubhouse is refreshments.
great
for
food
and
The club‘s members vary from those who simply enjoy a few shots at the weekend to shooters who are competing at national and international level.
T
he Naul Club is located on the Dublin – Meath border just 1km outside the Naul village on the Ballyboughal Road. The Club and its 40 members are all affiliated to Countryside Alliance Ireland. The members enjoy top class facilities on the grounds, with an English skeet layout (perfect for beginners as well as experienced shooters), an automatic balltrap layout for trap shooters and of course being a sporting club, there are 20 automatic traps throwing a great variety of sporting targets.
With the club‘s support and access to such practice facilities it‘s little surprise that many of our members have enjoyed great success in these competitions in 2008. Alan Clarke, Peter Hannifin, David Dillon, Eddie Wilson and Shane O‘Toole were part of the Meath team which won the allIreland championships during the year.
Both David and Peter went on to represent Ireland for the first time at the sporting home international in Scotland, where Peter had a fantastic outing and was Ireland‘s high gun of the match. Ciaran Whyte, a junior from the Club, also had a great year winning the Irish Open sporting junior championships as well as becoming the youngest person to win the senior Irish Open FITASC Championships. Ciaran was also a leading member of the Irish junior team who won bronze medals at the world sporting championships held in England. The grounds are owned by Edward Whyte who is also a factory appointed dealer for Hull Cartridge Company and a full selection of game and clay shooting cartridges are available on the grounds. The club‘s practice days are Saturday & Sunday and new shooters are always welcome on the ground. For information call 087 263 63 65. Photos: courtesy of Irish Shooters Digest
At the end of a shoot the log-cabin
WANTED
W
e are seeking the whereabouts of the above Perpetual Trophy, which was in circulation in the 1980‘s and was presented on an Annual basis to the Field Sportsperson of the Year. It is the property of the Game Conservancy and the Countryside Alliance (formerly the BFSS). It may be in the custody of the last recipient, however, we have no 10
record of who that worthy person was and we are anxious to relocate it so that we may bring it back into circulation. If you have any knowledge of its whereabouts or if you do have it in your collection we would be eternally grateful for its return. Please contact Lyall on 028 92 63 9911 if you can be of help.
UPDATE—CA UK
T
he Countryside Alliance's quarterly membership magazine Update is now out. In this issue Alliance President Baroness Mallalieu QC looks at the nature of protest in "Fighting for your rights", Roger Wilson introduces The Countryside Alliance Foundation and Marcus Armytage celebrates the racing community. Additionally, there are pages of news, events, questions answered and features on the Countryside Alliance Awards and National Shooting Week. Read Update online at www.countryside-alliance.org
CAI DINNER AND SPORTING AUCTION
G
algorm Resort and Spa was the venue for Countryside Alliance Ireland‘s annual Dinner Dance and Sporting Auction.
services to the CAI Board and its members.
The event was a magnificent success, with over 110 people in attendance on the night. It was also an ideal opportunity for the Chairman of Countryside Alliance Ireland Mr Paul Cran to present the out going Chairman Mr Ken Taylor with a More photographs from the evening: Mr Cran also presented Jean Taylor with a bouquet of flowers. It was a wonderful evening much enjoyed by all with excellent food, wine, music, dancing and the fun continued well into the early hours!
limited edition David Carlisle print, a small token of appreciation for his
The auction was expertly conducted by James Armstrong M.F.H. and we wish to thank all those who kindly donated items on the evening.
ALL ROADS LEAD TO CLONMEL UK, Europe, the USA and Australia to experience the joy of watching the World‘s most experienced greyhounds
T
he 84th National Coursing Meeting will take place in Powerstown Park, Clonmel on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of February 2009. This great national sporting and cultural event will again draw huge crowds to enjoy the top class sport provided on each of the three days.
showing their paces behind the legendary Irish Hare. For further details contact the Irish Coursing Club on +353 (0)52 72481 Fax: +353 (0)52 26446 Email: administration@sportingpress.ie
The dates for the 2009 Last year Powerstown Park saw huge crowds; in excess of 30,000 came to see coursing at its highest level. Visitors come from all over Ireland, the
J.P. McManus Irish Cup are Fri, Sat, Sun 27th, 28th Pictures: Courtesy of Mr John Kelly (Clonmel)
February and 1st March 2009
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THE CASE OF THE VANISHING GOOSE and it was decided that the following evening we would attempt to shoot a couple of geese.
L
iving in the heart of rural Cambridgeshire was to me, a daily joy. The village of Offord in those days was almost a throw back in time where the older locals often related old time stories over a pint of ale and still played bar skittles in front of the pub‘s large open fire. There were never any periods or seasons where boredom ruled the day. Summers were spent casting a line for a wily fish or shooting pigeons on the local Lenton Estate. I was fortunate enough to become firm friends with one Stanley Robbins Esq. who was the estates keeper. Stan was one of the old school and dare I say it poacher turned very good keeper. My late father would often say he would take a bet that Stan would catch a rabbit in the middle of Piccadilly Circus and few would have taken him on. I spent many wonderful hours with Stan, which caused a certain amount of chagrin amongst my other shooting acquaintances. Stan had always been much of a loner and when one day he asked in his very distinctive Cambridgeshire accent what I was doing on the approaching Saturday, my reply was, 'Shooting with you I hope.' From that day on a bond was formed between us and the time I spent under his tutelage will never be forgotten. Stan was a brilliant shot and at that time shot a Damascus barrelled hammer gun. I always joked that the barrels were longer than any Howitzer but he was deadly with it. During the early part of the year the maintenance of the pheasant pens were a priority along with planting fresh cover and all that goes with the general upkeep of a shooting estate. Mr Lenton, the 'gentleman' farmer who owned the area was a wonderful character in his own right. Several evenings a year he would take to the wheel of his Subaru truck. Stan and I would sit on a bale of straw in the back with a huge box of cartridges and a lamp. Rabbits were the target and we shot lots of them. None were wasted as a shot rabbit then would fetch 50p at the local market with ferreted rabbits making a £1. My other regular 'sparring' partner was Roy Wood. Roy owned Carters Boat Yard which was also in the village and it was where I kept my six berth cruiser. The relationship between Roy and I was somewhat different to the one I had with Stan. Although we were the best of friends there was always a rivalry between us when it came to sporting matters. When it came to angling Roy was what I refer to as a dabbler. He enjoyed it but was not very good at it. Put a gun in his hand and things then became very different. At that time Roy shot a 20 bore and boy could he use it. I had the pleasure of his company on several very good driven shoots and Roy invariably 'wiped my eye,' and when he did so I wasn't allowed to forget it. The good humoured rivalry often spilled over into the local pub much to the amusement of the regulars in the bar. Over a pint one evening I began to berate the use of what I called his pop gun and asked why he didn't use a proper man‘s gun. He made the point that he was a better shot with his pop gun that I was with my 12 bore. A challenge was set 12
The Canada's in the area had bred to such an extent that they had become a serious problem amongst the local farming community. The damage being done by them had gained them no allies and thinning them out was very much welcomed. A large flock of them had begun to graze on the field which was situated between my house and Roy‘s boat yard. On either side of it were two channels of water where the Great Ouse split. Behind the boat yard was a huge gravel pit where the geese settled every evening. Their flight path took them directly over the boat yard and this is where we lay in wait for them. Behind the old granary there were several luxury caravans. These were not the kind you tow behind your car but huge, 30ft plus jobs that cost the owners a large amount of cash. As we watched the birds moving across the field which was situated some 200 yards away I joked that small people (Roy is only 5ft 4 tall) with small guns shouldn't be out at night on their own. Roy growled back with words which are somewhat unprintable. I took up my position by an adjoining fence and my partner concealed himself close to the granaries towering walls. The light began to fade very rapidly and the greedy birds just carried on devouring all in front of them. Just as I began to think they would never get up, as if by a starters signal they all lifted off amongst a cacophony of sound. In the gathering gloom the birds veered right, circled around and then headed straight towards us. Against the now almost black back drop I picked out my bird. It was high and had now picked up momentum. 'If I miss this, he'll never let me live it down,' I thought. I swung the gun and took my shot. The bird instantly folded and with a thump hit the ground on the far side of the fence. As I vaulted over to retrieve it I distinctly hear two bangs. I picked up my goose and climbed back to see Roy wandering around in the darkness. 'I got mine. Where is yours,' I asked. 'It's here somewhere,' was the reply. 'You had two shots and missed with both,' I said. 'I had one shot and the bird was dead in the air,' came the reply. 'Where is it then,' I said with a grin. 'It's b----y here, I'm telling you,' came the very indignant reply. Ten minutes on we were still searching for the vanishing goose and my knife was well and truly stuck in. I asked why we were wasting out time and the pub would be closed and I wouldn't be able to tell all how he had taken two shots and missed with both of them. Suddenly my mate grabbed my arm, uttered several unprintable expletives and told me to wait where I was. Roy ran off to his cottage and came back with a large bunch of keys. He opened the door of the 'poshest' van on the site and turned on the light. As we looked up there was a large indent in the roof which now sagged down some 18 inches. A stepladder retrieved the very dead bird from the roof of the caravan. The van was owned by a very snooty lady who would definitely not be amused by her van‘s accidental alterations and more to the point she was due to visit the following day. In desperation we collected from the granary work shop two of the very largest sweeping brushes, the type with a head on them about a yard across. We strategically placed them on the inside of the roof and I said, 'One two three push.' As we heaved on the handles there was a resounding 'booing' and the roof miraculously returned to it's original shape. As we walked away in total darkness all my companion would say was,' Told you I had hit the b----r and you are buying the first round.' Geoff Cooper, Journalist (Roscommon)
HEARD ON THE GRAPEVINE On the Mend Patrick Keating, who has been hunting the West Waterford Foxhounds since 2002 is currently recovering from a double break of his collar bone sustained in a crashing fall. In his absence the hounds are being hunted by Donnach Brown. HANI Re-Elects Office Bearers
and Mrs Frank Boyd, followed their huntsman along Moss Lane to Lowtown Road and out to Derrykillultagh townland. The Iveagh Foxhounds meet at Silverford Mills outside Banbridge Co Down was held on a bright but cool day which made everyone forget that the end of November was coming near.
The following office bearers have been reelected by the Association Chairman
Mr J Vance MH.
Vice Chairman
Mr T Fulton
Honorary Secretary
Mrs J S Brown
Honorary Treasurer Mr B Dougan Beagles Stolen The Irish Masters of Beagles Association is asking anyone with information about the theft of beagles from the kennels of the Riverstown Beagles to get in touch with any official of the Association. The Beagles, one couple of dog hounds and two and a half couple of bitches, were stolen from the kennels at Glanmire, Co Cork, on Saturday 22nd November 2008 and the Hunt is anxious to have them returned safe and sound. Around the meets The Killultagh Old Rock and Chichester Hunt’s meet at Wits End Farm, Stoneyford was preceded by the presentation of a new whip to huntsman Tim Taylor from amateur whipper-in Mr Chris Berry. Chris who does so much for the Hunt had ordered a new whip for himself and was, allegedly, so ashamed of the huntsman‘s old whip that he ordered one for him too.
OBITUARY Mrs Elsie Morgan MFH 1913—2008 It is with much sadness that we have to announce the passing away of Mrs Elsie Morgan MFH at the age of ninety five.
Mr John Porter MFH had on a twelve and a half couple mixed pack which included one and a half couple of Welsh Foxhounds which drew some interested questions from the members and spectators more used, as they are, to the Scarteen type hounds for which the Iveaghs are so famous. They had been drafted in by kennel huntsman Neil Keery who also had some Modern English blood on view to give the pack a positively cosmopolitan look! An eventful hunt continued throughout the day and the hounds were lifted and John Porter blew for home. At Ballyalton, near Downpatrick, the East Down Foxhounds met in the village and huntsman Declan Feeney had on a
sixteen and a half couple mixed pack on what proved to be a day of patchy scenting conditions. Declan was assisted by Mr Craig Caven MFH now into his thirty first season. A small but hardy field followed the hounds all day . Among the mounted field were local sisters Gail McEwen and Donna Quail who had put a lot of work into organising the meet. The presentation over, Tim took his thirteen and a half couple mixed pack to the first draw duly assisted by amateur whippers-in, Chris and Master Patrick Grinter. A twenty strong mounted field, under joint masters Mr Graham Duncan
by amateur whipper-in Ms Ann Magill and Mrs Cynthia Dorman MFH was in charge of the small mounted field. After a long day home was reluctantly blown with neither huntsman nor hounds having anything to show for all their hard work.
The North Down Foxhounds suffered one of the worst scenting days of the season so far at Girvan‘s Lane Ends outside of Ballynahinch.
Elsie literally was a giant of the Irish Hunting world. Born in Wales, Mrs Morgan came to Ireland in 1949 with her husband Captain Tom Morgan when he retired and they began hunting in Co Waterford. They were joint masters of the West Waterford Foxhounds from 1953 and Elsie hunted hounds until 1984 while her husband remained in the mastership until 1989. Elsie possessed the tremendous ability to handle hounds, horses and indeed all sorts of animals. Elsie had hunted an Army pack of hounds before arriving in Lismore. In addition to hunting she represented Ireland at show jumping to Nations Cup level and also achieved some one hundred and fifty wins on the track. The late, great, Ikey Bell was such a confirmed admirer of Elsie Morgan‘s that, acting as a mentor to the Morgan's, he told Elsie that he would breed her 2a pack of hounds worthy of her talents. He also advised her to use College Valley and Fell blood which she did, to breed a wonderful pack of hounds. Having retired from the mastership at seventy years of age this remarkable lady rejoined it at ninety and resumed her role at the helm from where she directed the construction of the current kennels at Tallow. This much loved and wonderfully able lady was laid to rest after a service at Conna Church of Ireland, outside Tallow, and former Waterford Foxhounds‘ huntsman Nigel Cox blew ―Home‖ on a very old hunting horn which had been given to the Morgan's by Ikey Bell. A fitting tribute to a giant of our sport. Tom Fulton
Huntsman Tom Haddock had twelve and a half couple mixed pack and was assisted 13
SPORTING ODDITIES Why does the sportsman enjoy hunting, shooting and fishing? It is undoubtedly due to a whole variety of reasons including enjoyment of nature, successful deception of prey, time out from busy modern life, as well as the satisfaction of some deep genetic hunting urge stemming from ancient times. Success comes from deep down, and from base instincts. These pursuits force you to slow down, to ease off to a more natural pace and live only for the here and now. Take shooting for example. The branches of this country-sport can be subdivided into active and passive varieties. Pigeon shooting, wildfowling and driven game shooting all require some degree of physical effort to get in place, but the actual shooting is usually
done from a static position. Rough shooting, and walked up game shooting require the shooter to be on the move, and therefore require a greater degree of physical effort during the time a gun is loaded. Most people will take part in both types of shooting, but will specialise in one. My speciality is sitting on my backside, in a duck hide in winter, and in the pursuit of crows and pigeons on crop protection forays at other times. This gives me time to think. I think of my decoy pattern, where flight line may be, the effect of tide and wind direction, as well as more mundane things from modern life. And so it was that I was standing in a chest high drain during February, thinking. As it happens at the time I was
The branches of country sports can be subdivided into active and passive varieties
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SPORTING ODDITIES CONT’D My thoughts of sporting oddities then switched to a converse situation which happened in January 2005 when shooting in Fermanagh. A group of very high tufted duck flew over the position occupied by my friend, and myself and while Andy managed to score a double miss, I scored with the first barrel on a very sporting bird. ―What a shot!‖ congratulated Andy, ―that was the shot of the season!‖ My honesty got the better of me and I had to concede that I actually shot at the bird in front.
wondering where all the crows had gone! Suddenly, from my right, a brown bird hurtled into my decoy pattern at great speed, swooping to one of my plastic decoys. It spun around and circled over the pattern before swooping again. Without touching a decoy it then left the field as quickly as it had arrived. At least I had managed to fool one bird into thinking my decoys were real, even though it was a Sparrow Hawk. I was surprised and delighted at this interlude, and when I returned to my thinking, it was on a new subject – that of Sporting Oddities, strange sporting happenings. I thought first of the day five seasons ago I scored a double oddity. I had arrived early and set up hide and decoys in a new position. It was a very dark night and I could barely make out the decoy shapes when I returned to the hide. Those regular wildfowlers reading this will realise that it is indeed rare to have a night when it is too dark to see – usually moon and stars provide enough light to see a surprising distance well before dawn. I had just settled back into my hide when I heard the tell tale ―whispering wings‖ of ducks in the vicinity and was very surprised to make out the shape of a widgeon dropping towards my recently installed decoy pattern. I stood to shoot, confident in the range as the bird was trying to drop into the landing zone I had left in the pattern, and was delighted to see it crumple at the first shot and float among the plastic deceivers. My ever-steady Labrador was already half way to the duck as I pushed another cartridge into the magazine of the semi-automatic, and he soon returned with a beautiful hen widgeon. I settled back into position, and tried to calm down Finn, but unusually he would not calm down. He kept looking out to the water, and refused to look at me. It took a while but it slowly dawned on me that there was something else on the water. I sent the dog again, and was staggered when he returned with another hen widgeon – still warm, and killed by the same shot as the first.
Sporting Oddities extend to fishing as well. I once lost a tooth when landing a trout – you see, I hadn‘t thought of opening the landing net before I started, and with a decent fish on the line, I resorted by using my mouth as a third hand. The resulting visit to the dentist and crown meant that the trout (which I did secure) was a pretty pricey one. I know a number of fishermen who can boast two or else three trout on the same team of flies at the same time, and I myself have hooked and landed two on the River Bann. I have hooked and landed five mackerel at the same time off the Co. Down coast near the mouth of Carlingford Lough. I hooked a bat one night while fly-fishing the evening rise on the River Bann. On the back cast, I thought I had hooked a tree before the weight of the line pulled the unfortunate creature down towards the earth. It released the fly and was fortunately able to fly on. The strangest piscatorial happenings have happened to me during my pike fishing escapades. On one occasion, a pike of around 7 or 8 pounds which I had been playing leapt out of the water onto the fishing stand I was on and knocked over my portable cooker we had been cooking our lunch of sausages on. The pike was eventually returned unhurt, but I‘m afraid the sausages didn‘t make it … On another occasion, my fishing partner and I were coming to terms with a fishless pike expedition, when I decided to answer the call of nature. I turned my head to watch my floats, and was horrified to see one bob and move off just as my body passed its point of no return. I‘m glad my friend had no camera, as I was required to land the pike from an unusually exposed position. On more than one occasion pike have also attacked the fish in keep nets during coarse fishing sessions. I have had kingfishers, herons and even owl land so close that I could make out every detail of their delicate feathering. A snipe landed so close to my dog and I one evening at a flight pond that I could have reached out and grabbed it. It fed for a few minutes before the dog‘s whining chased it away. Alan Brown
As if that were not enough strange excitement for one day, the geese started to fly over my position well after full daylight. The skeins were either too high or too wide, but in anticipation of an opportunity at geese, I had brought my trusty (and sometimes rusty) 10 bore with me. As skein after skein of greylags flew over, I resisted the temptation to ―have a go‖, and this paid off when finally a skein flew over in range. Mindful of the fact that geese are big birds and often fool wildfowlers into missing them behind, I gave my selected bird huge lead, and then a bit more to be sure. When I pulled the trigger I was staggered to watch as the bird in front of the bird I was aiming at fell, stone dead, into the field behind me.
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