FOR years, I’ve bemoaned the fact that working springer spaniels have got smaller, whiter and more whippety, and about as far removed from the breed standard as it’s possible to go and still call them English springers. I’ve also noted, without enthusiasm, the trend for trialling labradors to become faster, lighter and altogether more racey. However, I’m now having second thoughts. Who really needs a big dog when a smaller one will do the job just as well?
My change of opinion was prompted originally by the arrival of Emma the sprocker into the Tomlinson household. She was a small puppy but I assumed naively that, when she matured, she would fill out and become what I would call a proper-sized spaniel. Now, at three, she still weighs a mere 11kg and is regularly mistaken for a puppy. However, she is fast, very fast, and despite her small size can do everything my full-size springers could do. Pick up a cock pheasant? No problem. In car terms, she is the equivalent of an old-fashioned Mini Cooper S: great handling, extremely quick and highly entertaining. Who needs a big spaniel when a small one can do everything equally well?
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Strength in Numbers -The success of Britain's growing band of Farmer Clusters shows the value in working together and engaging with the public in the name of conservation, says Gabriel Stone
In a world that leans into gloomy headlines, it's important to wave the flag for a refreshing success story. That's especially the case when it comes to our overburdened farming sector and the wider way in which we manage the landscape. Yes, we: everyone can play a role, not least through one inspirational initiative. Ever since a 2013 pilot project by the GWCT in association with Natural England, Farmer Clusters have mushroomed across Britain. Led by farmers with guidance from expert advisers, today's network of about 125 clusters encourages a cohesively managed, locally tailored, larger-scale approach to conservation work.
Going over old ground
Forget modern tractors and minimum tillage - there is something glorious about the sight of farmer, horse and vintage plough in perfect harmony
Return of the natives
There is nothing as satisfying as creating a magical miniature woodland or conservation hedgerow using our native trees - and now is the best time to start.
Tagging the Cornish tunny
Enormous Atlantic bluefin tuna are once again making waves in UK waters almost a century after their showstopping appearance in the North Sea
In it for the long haul
It may have fallen out of favour at the elite level but long-format three-day eventing is still proving popular with grassroots riders
Unpicking the story of hunt buttons
These treasured tokens are bestowed only upon those who go above and beyond in service of their hunt but the rules around them can be complex
A place of tradition in the heart of town
Cordings has helped shape the sartorial landscape of Britain for 185 years, with its classic country tailoring a firm staple of many sporting wardrobes
Don't play it by ear
Hearing loss can have a devastating impact on day-to-day life, making ear protection a non-negotiable piece of field kit
Back to base-ics
Britain's famously unpredictable climate can make staying comfortable in the field a challenge but the right under layers can be a game changer
Stand and deliver
A good stance provides the platform for shotgun marksmanship and is fundamental to consistent success in the field or breaking clays
