If you've always dreamt of watching racing ferrets, trying a spot of clay pigeon shooting or attempting archery, then head down to Shepton Mallet for the Westcountry Game Fair.

Featuring a mix of fascinating activities, demonstrations and education, the event at the Royal Bath & West Showground is the perfect opportunity to revel in all manner of things rural.

It will feature the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) Shooting School, featuring BASC Air Rifle coaching, BASC gundog scurries, terrier and lurcher shows, fly-casting demon- strations and coaching, falconry, vintage tractors and machinery.

And new for 2009 is a smallholders' area where Somerset exponents of the Good Life will show you how to get in touch with your inner farmer.

The showground will also be full of countryside shopping – guns, fishing equipment, gifts, clothing, paintings, prints, food and much more.

And if you're game for a little game on your plate, two top chefs will demonstrate the benefits and pleasures of eating game such as venison, partridge and pheasant. Being low in cholesterol and totally free range, they are some of the healthiest meats available.

Another highlight of the fair will be a chance to meet air-rifle champion Kevin Jackman, who will offer coaching and advice to would-be marksmen and women.

Kevin is a renowned expert of many shooting disciplines and known internationally for his abilities and knowledge of the sport.

He started field target air-rifle shooting in 1988, with his first international shoot in 1989, and went on to become double World Champion, British Champion, UK Champion, US Championship Open class winner, German Spring Gun Champion and our very own South West of England Champion on two occasions.

If fishing is more your thing, then the show offers you the opportunity for a one-on-one with Britain's most famous and internationally respected fisherman, Charles Jardine, who will be demonstrating his skills and offering coaching.

Charles, who first started fishing at the age of three, is regarded as one of the pre-eminent fishermen of his generation, having competed internationally and represented England at two Commonwealth Games finals, where he won two team gold medals and a bronze.

In addition to his prowess with a fishing rod, Charles is also a successful author, illustrator, radio and TV presenter and journalist

The Westcountry Game Fair 2009. Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15.

The event is open from 9am until 5pm on both days. Discount advance tickets are available by visiting www.contour.uk.net or calling 01749 813899.