A Novice stake was held at Manor Farm Shoot, Dorking on 8 January 2026.

Many thanks to the shoot for inviting us for a third year to hold our trial there. Thanks to the keeper, the shoot captain and the team of guns whose day it was, also the beaters who put some super birds in front of the guns.

And as always thanks to the helpers because without them giving up their time we could not put on any of the club events that we do.

The day started with dire weather warnings of snow or hurricanes but in fact it wasn’t too cold at all. The fog proved challenging for marking down birds. It didn’t deter the guns who shot tremendously well providing plenty of birds for the competitors.

Our judges were Mike Jones, Di Stevens, Reuben Corbett and Vicki Ruston. They judged fairly and gave the dogs every opportunity to succeed. Many thanks to them for agreeing to judge for the club.

When the trial was over we had three award winners.

1st Mary-Jane Opie with Studebaker Dee Type

2nd Ed Lewington with Mitforton Wren who was also Guns Choice .

3rd Keith Townsend with Elmertown Wren .

Congratulations to you all .