LOVERS of rural pursuits found plenty to keep them entertained at a two-day celebration over the weekend.

The seventh Teesdale Game Fair attracted 15,000 people to the grounds of Witton Castle, near Bishop Auckland, on Saturday and Sunday.

The event drew exhibitors from all over the country but organisers would welcome more stands from the North-East next year.

Geoff Clutton, of Exhibition Management, said: "I would like to see more participation from people in the area. There must be a lot of crafts people and other businesses who could show their produce.

"I would also like to hear from a local charity, as the community has supported the fair and I want to give something back in return."

Activities included clay shooting, racing and competitions from the National Terrier and Lurcher Association and the Fell and Moorland Working Terrier Club. Angling was represented for the first time through the Weardale Fly Fishers and Tiers.

Displays by Bill Heslop and his Rossendale Sheepdogs, birds of prey from the Ridgeside Falconry, the Cheshire Dog Display Team and the Imps Motorcycle Display Team entertained crowds around the main arena.

Trade stand customers could find anything from a ferret cage to a £90 pair of wellingtons or mysterious 'love' herbs which stop pheasants from straying.

The Durham branch of the Muzzle Loaders Association of Great Britain included a display of antique rifles and pistols on their stands.

Mr Clutton can be contacted at Bridge Farm, Rawcliffe Bridge, near Goole, East Yorkshire, or call 01405 831184.