Game Fair proves a blast

6:46pm Friday 25th July 2008

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The tens of thousands of people who braved the traffic jams to make it into the 50th anniversary CLA Game Fair at Blenheim Palace today were clear about one thing - it was worth the wait.

Warm weather and sun added to the fun as people sampled off-road driving, rock climbing, fly-fishing and much more.

One of the highlights of the day was a celebrity clay pigeon shooting challenge in aid of the Children's Trust, a charity which cares for severely disabled children.

Teams were joined by celebrities, including actor Bernard Cribbins, BBC Countryfile's Adam Henson and rugby union star Liam Botham.

Also on display were some of Britain's best sporting shots, such as 15-times world champion George Digweed and Olympic hopefuls Richard Fauld and Elena Little.

Mr Digweed's team won the event, shooting all of their 80 clays, while Mr Cribbins's team hit a respectable 68.

Mr Cribbins, 79, said: "I've been into my sport shooting for many years and I always try to come along to the Game Fair because it's a great event.

"This is a really good cause and I was pleased to take part. I think I held my own and shot a fair few."

Liam Botham, son of cricketing legend Ian, is no stranger to sporting success, having played professional cricket for Hampshire, rugby union for Newcastle, Cardiff and England A and rugby league for Leeds Rhinos and Wigan.

He said: "I was always into the outdoors stuff like shooting and fishing and think this is a great event."

Hundreds of stalls selling everything from heavy farm machinery to revolutionary' dog blankets kept spectators' wallets busy.

Jenny Blackwell, 39, of Thame, said: "It was pretty bad in the car this morning - it took us more than two hours to get here. I even considered turning the car around and going home.

"But once you get inside the whole place is fantastic. There is so much to do that I'm not sure one day will be enough."

Her son Thomas, 11, said: "I had a go at the rock climbing and there was a bungee trampoline which is great, but I've liked watching all the shooting and fishing as well."

Lee Roebuck, 51, of Wantage, said: "I have been fishing since I was ten so I'm never going to miss an event like this. Every year I say I won't spend anything but then the wallet gets hit pretty hard."