Broomhall hosts autumn Field Trials for the 2018 Springer Spaniel Championships

Photo by Tina Norris

Broomhall Estate recently hosted field trials for The Tay Valley Gundog Association in glorious autumn weather. 

The Association organised an Open Field trial for its members to qualify for the 2018 Springer Spaniel Championships.  Both Novice (any variety) springer and cocker spaniel stakes, and open English Springer Spaniel qualifying stakes were held.

Field trials have been held for many years as the most effective way of judging sporting breeds in competitive conditions. The Kennel Club explains that “Many of our best loved breeds were traditionally developed to help man in hunting. Labrador Retrievers gathered game in the field; Cocker Spaniels flushed and retrieved game; Pointers and Setters ranged over the fields helping us seek out birds and rabbits for the table.”

Broomhall is managed as a working rural estate with an emphasis on conservation of the countryside to sustain a traditional way of life.  Field Trials are a popular activity for dog handlers and spectators alike and offer the thrill of watching well-trained dogs working with their handlers in close control in a beautiful landscape setting.

 

Photography by Tina Norris