The Field

Published by TI Media Limited The Field is a monthly glossy magazine dedicated to those brave souls who shoot, fish and hunt way beyond the call of duty. Since 1853, its staff has selflessly brought its readers the cream of rural life, be it pheasant shooting, dry-fly fishing or the distinct merits of Cheval Blanc. If you love field sports, errant terriers and very foxy friends at hunt balls, The Field is for you.

Introducing…

The Field

Collaboration on deer is key • While Defra’s proposals for deer management in England are broadly positive, closer engagement with stakeholders will be critical to success, says Charles Smith-Jones

New threats to shooting emerge • To contact the news desk, message us via our social channels or send an email to charlotte.mackaness@futurenet.com

Law updated to protect livestock from dog attacks

One good deed… • New charity supports meadow planting in late founder’s name

News in brief

May diary

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria discovered in Oxford waterways

Helping curlew

Kit to covert • Our monthly guide to everything notable in the field for sporting enthusiasts and those keen on country life

Baroness Batters • The trailblazing former president of the National Farmers Union talks to Madeleine Silver about her successes, frustrations and future plans

Letters to the Editor • Write to: The Editor, The Field, Future Publishing PLC, 121-141 Westbourne Terrace, London W2 6JR. Email: field.secretary@futurenet.com

Country estate of the month • Tulchan estate, Grantown-on-Spey, Morayshire

Keep on trucking • Rupert Bates talks to Richard Binning, UK board director of Savills, about charity fundraising, his love of the land and livestock, and why ‘grumpy’ farmers are the world’s biggest optimists

THE FIELD Six months for £24.99* • Enjoy these great subscriber benefits

Bright Waters, crossed fingers • There are few finer places to cast a fly than the River Bourne in May, says Neil Cross. Meanwhile, Serena Cross prays for fair weather on the moor as grouse begin to hatch

Looking beyond the numbers • A new record low for Scottish salmon and sea-trout catches is obviously unwelcome but we must remember that statistics only tell part of the story, says Mungo Ingleby

Isaac ‘Ikey’ Bell • A popular and charismatic huntsman, Ikey Bell is remembered for his efforts to improve the English foxhound by prioritising athleticism over aesthetics.

A passport to wild places • For Denys Watkins-Pitchford, better known as BB, the gun was more than just steel and wood: it was a tool of conservation

From falconry to firepower • While hunting with firearms was originally the domain of poachers and the poor, by the end of the 16th century the gun was well on its way to becoming the sporting gentleman’s weapon of choice

Simulated days for sporting sorts • These simulated days can extend your season in splendid style, from weekend house-party vibes to bucket-list destinations, truly challenging clays and the perfect friends-and-family sport

Rises and falls • Forty years after he last fished its waters, Roger Field returns to the River Coln to discuss past glories and present challenges with an old friend from the Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry

Unsung heroes • From hunt grooms and treasurers to gamekeepers and kennelmen, Octavia Pollock celebrates those selfless individuals who freely share their time, energy and talents to sustain our sport

The brilliance of rare breeds • Britain’s native livestock bring significant value to farming and land management while boosting biodiversity. Mary Skipwith meets the passionate individuals who are working to ensure their survival

Keeping it in the family • Estate...