CHATSWORTH 2005  –  THE ‘HAVE-A-GO’ FAIR

(May 21-22, 2005)

 

World-famed TV star John Wilson will be among the big-name anglers giving demonstrations at next May’s Chatsworth Angling Fair  –  to be held over the weekend of May 21-22 on the Chatsworth House estate near Bakewell, Derbyshire.

He was so enthusiastic about last year’s Silver Jubilee of the annual fair that he has found time to take part in the event for the second year running. One regular feature which particularly impressed him at the 25th anniversary show is that he and other renowned demonstrators perform on live waters  –  the Derbyshire Derwent runs through the grounds  –  so that spectators in the riverside stands always have a chance of seeing fish caught under natural conditions.

Research prior to the 2004 show confirmed that it is the largest open-air fair in the world to be devoted purely and simply to angling. Another bull point is that, both in the demonstrations and among the trade exhibitors, all aspects of the sport are covered  –  game, coarse and sea fishing, as well as special aids for disabled anglers.

A theme of the 2005 show is that it will be a “Have-A-Go” fair, with strong emphasis on encouraging audience participation. Tackle manufacturers and other members of the trade are being invited to sponsor or provide appropriate prizes for a well-chosen range of events. These are expected to include casting competitions, both distance and accuracy – not only for coarse and game anglers but also for those receiving tuition from the international surf casters who demonstrate in Chatsworth’s Old Deer Park.

Other such attractions may include direct participation in fly tying, learning to tie complicated knots properly, and being taught how to split a cane rod.

For open space at next May’s fair, charges to exhibitors will be £22 per foot (plus VAT), with a minimum width of 20ft. (All spaces are 40ft deep.) For covered shedding, the charge is £475 (plus VAT) per 10ft front and 20ft depth. There is a further 20ft space behind for parking.

Benefiting from slightly later timing than in its early years, the fair will be open from 8.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. each day.   Entrance for members of the public is £8 on the day, but only £7 for applications received by May 13.*   Coach parties of 30 or more can also obtain a 20 per cent discount.

In addition to ace chef Martin Griffiths cooking succulent fish recipes and handing out titbits to everyone watching him, plans are in hand to help people linger on the site through an overall improvement in catering facilities.

Children aged 14 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Car parking is also free.

Special efforts are being made to enhance the Chatsworth Angling Fair’s own website, newly introduced last year –  www.countryfairoffice.co.uk , then click on the tab for the fair. Members of the trade exhibiting at the fair will be welcome to provide new information for the site, which can be incorporated up to the beginning of May.

* For early applications, cheques made out to “Chatsworth Angling Fair” should be sent, with s.a.e., to: Christopher Lloyd Owen, The Country Fair Office, Litcham Farm House, King’s Lynn PE32 2PB.

This is also the address for trade and Press enquiries. Tel.: 01328-701133.   Fax: 01328-700488. E-mail: info@countryfairoffice.co.uk