CLA ‘deeply regrets’ decision to scrap Game Fair
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) called time on its popular Game Fair this week, after organisers revealed the event had been running at a loss for the past three years.
Although the annual event regularly attracts more than 100,000 people, ticket sales have fallen by 21% since 2011.
In a statement sent to Farmers Weekly, CLA director general Helen Woolley explained why her organisation could no longer continue to finance the fair.
See also: CLA pulls out of ‘loss-making’ Game Fair event
Helen Woolley
Read Helen Woolley’s statement in full:
The race is now on to find a new backer amid reports that the CLA is in talks with a number of interested parties, including the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), Countryman Fairs and Blaze Publishing.
“It was with great regret that we made the tough decision to end our support for the Game Fair. The decision comes after three years of the event making a financial loss.
“We are proud of the Game Fairs we have supported for more than half a century and we are grateful to the dedicated team that has worked so hard to deliver what have been well-run, professional events in recent years.
Five facts about the Game Fair
- The Game Fair was the UK’s biggest celebration of field sports and country life, offering shooting, fishing, archery, various animal shows, local food and drink and shopping.
- The first Game Fair was held in Newmarket in 1958, attracting 8,500 visitors.
- The record attendance for the three-day show was 151,000 visitors in 2008, when it was held at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.
- Heavy rain led to the cancellation of the show in 2007, leading to an estimated loss of £50m.
- The Queen visited her first Game Fair at Stratfield Saye, Berkshire, in 1974.
“Ultimately the event did not attract enough visitors to sustain it. Between 2011 and 2015 the event experienced a 21% decline in income from attendance.
“There is a range of factors that impact on attendance. For example, there are a lot of countryside events in our summer calendar, especially a range of excellent local and regional country shows, game fairs and other lifestyle events.
“I don’t believe that our decision is a reflection on what is a growing industry made up of traditional and modern countryside pursuits that we are proud to represent.
“We have said that we are open to proposals from other organisations and companies that have an interest in taking on the Game Fair and making it a success. That process is under way and we would be pleased to see the Game Fair continue if possible.
“The CLA remains in a robust financial position. Having made this hard decision, we will focus on continuing to provide advice and support to thousands of farmers and other rural businesses across the rural community; and above all being a strong, credible voice for rural businesses in Brussels, Westminster and Cardiff.
“At a time of economic uncertainty, especially in agriculture, and political upheaval following the general election, ensuring members are represented by a strong, focused CLA has never been more important.”