Great Shoots, The: Britain's Best - Past and Present

A unique history of sporting literature; the first and only one ever to embark on a comprehensive survey of the gameshooting scene both as it was and as it stands today. In this new and revised edition the fascinating story is brought right up to date. Many of the shoots chosen are owned by the rich and famous, Brian Martin provides a rare insight into their social lives; providing fascinating comment on their own estates and on shooting generally. Before detailing the history and present sport of each estate, region by region, the author sets the scene by outlining the history of gameshooting in Britain: the changing attitude of society; how economics have played an increasingly important part; how the popular press has perpetuated an often inaccurate image, how technical developments have shaped both gunmaking and game rearing; and much more. The inter-relationship between shooting and conservation, and the important contribution of the general welfare of our flora and fauna by the overwhelming majority of shoot proprieters, are given special attention. This superb volume has become the established celebration of the gameshooting world today. AUTHOR: Brian P Martin is among Britain's most successful country and natural history writers. He has written over twenty-five books to date, including the bestselling Tales of the Old Gamekeeper. Brian has contributed to numerous magazines including his weekly column 'Rusticus' which ran in the Shooting Times and The Countryman. REVIEWS: "The Great Shoots is a new book from Quiller Publishing, offering a snapshot of the game shooting scene as it is today." Sporting Shooter "While many of us will never have the chance to shoot on such great estates it is fascinating to read of the people who own them and how the shoots are run". Shooting Gazette 'As fascinating and comprehensive a study of the sport of shooting past and present as you're likely to find' Shooting Times WCountry Magazine 'It's a great read, a fascinating and perceptive history of our sport, and the book is beautifully illustrated' BASC Shooting NConservation 'Most of the estates described in detail are legends in the shooting world.' CLA colour photos illustrations