COUNTRY lovers and field sport enthusiasts are counting down to the launch of a new countryside show.

The three-day Field and Country Fair, which takes place at Cornbury Park, near Charlbury, is billed as a true celebration of rural pursuits.

About 150 high profile exhibitors will be attending the fair, from Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12, with guests invited to visit a gun makers' quarter, a game fishing village, learn about stalking, try country produce and browse a wealth of different stalls.

Show director Fiona Eastman said: "Everyone with a passion for field sports, country pursuits, the rural way of life and our wonderful countryside is sure to have a really enjoyable and highly memorable day out, so why not make a day of it with family and friends. Dogs are also welcome."

During the weekend, visitors can practice clay pigeon shooting, enter dog shows, and handle birds of prey from all around the world.

Ms Eastman added: "Our falconry area is sure to be one of the most popular areas of the fair. It will have mini arenas, a children's area where they can learn about birds of prey in the wild, take photographs and get involved in an interactive experience, a seminar tent, a superb display of birds and several falconry clubs able to give advice on how you could enjoy falconry and even take up the sport."

Howard Kirby is the owner of Mullenscote Dog Training Centre and Lains Shooting School and will also be at the show.

He said: "I hope we'll entertain visitors, and I hope they'll find it educational. When I was 40, I got a degree in teaching, specifically so I could do my job better, so I hope that our audience will learn something.

"The truth is, we have a team of dogs that are great to watch. So even if you're not particularly interested in gundog training, I hope you would enjoy our arena demonstration. Of course, I'm slightly biased, but they really are amazing to watch."

Also expected to be popular, there will be a daily programme of demonstrations by the renowned chef, food writer and cookery teacher Tim Maddams and the award winning Eat Wild chef brothers Will and Calum Thompson.

Jose Souto and two other chefs will prepare and serve a three-course meal against the clock and Rachel Green will prepare both her favourite and new ideas for shoot lunches.

Especially for children there will be activities such as corn dolly making, planting fun, story telling, felt making, and drawing competitions.

Advanced adult tickets are £18 and £20 on the gate and under 12s go free. Students cost £10 and there are special prices for seniors.

Visit fieldandcountryfair.com for more.