The HWVA were privileged to be able to run 2 days grouse pointing on 19th/20th September. Grouse numbers are very low this year on the North Yorkshire Moors, however the Keeper of Egton Moor was confident we would have sufficient numbers for our experience.
It was very interesting that we had several different breeds entered, HWV, Vizsla, GWP, GSP, a Bracco and a Braque d’Auvergne, and always interesting to see the differing ways the dogs work.
The first day we had perfect conditions, sunny and breezy, where the dogs and handlers learned and grew in confidence, understanding and ability. Split into two groups of five, and running for 10 minutes each, everyone had plenty of time, and every dog and handler came away feeling they know much more than when they began the day.
The second day was a little more challenging, being in low cloud and drizzle with less wind, but the dogs rose to the challenge and learned how to read the differing conditions. Five dogs and handlers had been on the previous day’s experience, with five new dogs attending. Again all did extremely well; everyone I spoke to really wanted to come back again.
It was a fabulous weekend and a pleasure to spend time with some lovely, like-minded people, and some lovely dogs. I certainly enjoyed watching their progress. Every dog did so well, I hope they all dreamed of grouse on their way home, as mine did!
I am so grateful to Andrew the Keeper and Morgan the beat keeper, for the time they spent with us, to Roy Bebbington for facilitating the days, and his knowledge and experience, and Debby and Ian Wearing for their help, support and pictures.
Debra Revell – Working Secretary
All photos courtesy of Ian & Debby Wearing
