This month, Countryside Conversations brings us to the North of England, where we chat with Justine Wilson and Francesca Jones, founders of the recently formed Northern Gundog Club. Their club offers dog owners across the North of England and the Scottish Borders convenient access to gundog training and competitions, while fostering a welcoming community of like-minded enthusiasts.
We first came across the Northern Gundog Club through our founder, Becs, who was searching for coach-led training experiences that blend authentic field conditions for her young Labrador, Tait, as she works to bring him on as a gundog. Since joining, Becs and Tait have become regulars at the club’s fun, supportive, and in-depth training sessions, which have included competitions and mock picking-up scenarios.
Glaze & Gordon was founded on a passion for animals, the outdoors, and traditional field sports. We know how important community is to these traditions, even as busy lives and geography can make connection harder. Through our Countryside Conversations series, we share real-life stories from the field that celebrate the people and clubs - like the Northern Gundog Club - keeping field sports alive and thriving.
Glaze & Gordon Founder, Becs & her black Labrador Tait at their first NGC training event - a Safari training and test day in the Scottish Borders.
Welcome Justine & Francesca, we are excited to learn more about what you do. Can you please introduce yourselves and give our readers an overview of the Northern Gundog Club?
Founded in April 2025, the Northern Gundog Club was born from a shared love of dogs, the outdoors, and the rewarding world of gundog training.
Justine’s journey began during the COVID lockdowns, when a cocker spaniel joined her family and sparked a newfound passion. Though she’s been surrounded by dogs—and even a couple of horses—for most of her life, it was only in the past four years that she discovered the joy of gundog work. That one spaniel quickly became three, and her days are now happily filled with training, beating, and picking up in the field.
Frankie, on the other hand, has been immersed in country life from the start. With a background in national-level showjumping and a childhood spent accompanying her dad on shoots, her transition into gundog activities felt like a natural next step. Today, she balances life with two horses and six dogs, all of whom play a part in her active outdoor lifestyle.
Frankie & Justine at their inaugural NGC event - a charity scurry for Teenager Cancer Trust
Congratulations on forming the Northern Gundog Club together in April! How did you two meet?
Thank you! Our paths first crossed a couple of years ago at a gundog training club run by Lyndsey (The Canine Coach), where we both attended weekly sessions throughout the summer. Over time, we became part of a close-knit group of friends who shared a love for dogs, training, and the outdoors. We’d often meet up for training days and weekends away with our dogs—and as it happens, we also own littermate spaniels, which kept us in regular contact!
Why did you decide to launch the Northern Gundog Club?
The idea for the Northern Gundog Club was born out of a conversation about the lack of local opportunities for gundog enthusiasts. We noticed that anyone wanting to take part in competitions or tests often had to travel far outside the region. That sparked the idea of creating a club that not only brought events closer to home but also championed inclusivity—welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, with no gender barriers. Our goal was to build a community where everyone feels supported and inspired to grow in their gundog journey.
The foundations for the club grew from our shared experiences at Lyndsey’s gundog training sessions, which offered not only valuable learning opportunities but also a strong sense of community. We saw firsthand how beneficial group training could be, not just for developing skills, but also for building friendships and confidence.
After many conversations and exchanging ideas, we felt there was a real need for a larger-scale club in our region. We wanted to create a positive, inclusive space that welcomed people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels, from complete novices to those preparing for trials.
One gap we noticed was the transition between basic training with canvas dummies and the real-world experience of working dogs in the field. It’s a big leap, and not everyone has access to the right support or facilities to make it. Fortunately, we did and that gave us the foundation to build something meaningful.
With input from Lyndsey, Joe, and Fran, and drawing on our own experiences, we shaped the club to meet those needs. Our goal is to offer practical training days, build a supportive community, and make gundog activities more accessible across the North.
Participant in a Northern Gundog Club training day
You mentioned your trainers Joe Hipwell, Lyndsey Rutherford, and Fran Ardley, what made them the right fit for the Northern Gundog Club?
From the moment the idea for the club began to take shape, we knew we wanted Joe, Lyndsey, and Fran on board. We approached them early on, and we were thrilled when all three agreed to form our training team.
Each of them brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to gundog training, which adds incredible depth to what we can offer. Despite their busy schedules, they’ve committed their time to the Northern Gundog Club because they share our vision and see the value this brings to the region.
Fran, of Tarncrag Gundogs, has recently launched an outstanding online training platform Train with Tarncrag which we’re incredibly proud to support. It’s a high-quality resource that allows people to train remotely with expert guidance, making gundog training more accessible than ever.
Lyndsey has recently relocated to Northumberland and is currently renovating her new site. The grounds there are perfect for gundog activities, and we’re really excited about the opportunities this will open up for our members.
Joe is always a positive force, enthusiastic, supportive, and full of energy. Whether it’s training sessions, events, or new ideas, he throws himself in wholeheartedly. He’s currently in the thick of the season, working dogs and training clients, yet still finds time to contribute to the club.
Together, they form a powerhouse team that reflects everything we stand for: quality, inclusivity, and a genuine love for working dogs.
NGC trainer Joe Hipwell working with a participant on a training day
What role do you think clubs such as yours play in preserving traditional field sports?
Clubs like the Northern Gundog Club play a vital role in keeping traditional field sports alive, not just by maintaining the skills and practices involved, but by making them accessible to a wider, more diverse audience.
We believe that education, community, and inclusivity are key to preserving these traditions. By offering training, events, and support for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced handlers, we help ensure that gundog work remains relevant and respected. It’s not just about competition; it’s about understanding the heritage, the connection between dog and handler, and the value of working outside with nature.
We also aim to break down barriers that may have previously made field sports feel exclusive or intimidating. Our club welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, creating a space where learning and enjoyment go hand in hand.
We see ourselves as part of a tradition that deserves to be celebrated and passed on not just preserved, but preserved but evolved in a way that keeps it thriving for future generations.
How important is community to people involved in gundog training and field sports?
Community is absolutely at the heart of gundog training and field sports. While the training itself can be a personal journey, it’s the shared experiences, support, and camaraderie that truly enrich it. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, being part of a community offers encouragement, learning opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
For many, these activities are more than just hobbies, they’re a lifestyle. Training days, shoot days, and competitions often bring people together from all walks of life, united by a love of dogs, the countryside, and traditional skills. Friendships are formed in muddy fields, over early morning coffees, and through shared successes and setbacks.
At Northern Gundog Club, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful that sense of connection can be. Our aim has always been to create an inclusive, welcoming space where people of all ages and abilities feel supported—, not just in their training, but in being part of something bigger.
We actively encourage swapping tips, cheering each other on at events, or simply enjoying time outdoors with like-minded people, community is what makes it all worthwhile. There is nothing better than seeing someone leave one of our events with an increase in confidence and a sense of achievement.
NGC Co-founder Justine picking up with Joe Hipwell as a guest on one of his regular shoots
It sounds like a great environment to grow and learn in. Are your members competitive or recreational trainers—or a mix of both?
We’re proud to say our members are a real mix of both! Some are deeply involved in the competitive side of gundog work, regularly entering working tests, field trials, and other events. Others are more focused on the recreational side, training for the joy of working with their dogs, spending time outdoors, and building strong partnerships.
This blend is exactly what makes the Northern Gundog Club so special. Whether someone is just starting out or has years of experience, we welcome all levels and interests. Our aim is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone can learn, grow, and enjoy their dogs. We always stress the most important thing is to enjoy what we are doing!
Frankie co-founder of the Northern Gundog Club picking up with her friends in Northumberland
You have created very inclusive club with a warm welcome for everyone. What can members expect from your workshops and events, and can you give us any insights into what’s coming up in 2026?
We’re so excited about what’s ahead for 2026! When we first launched the Northern Gundog Club, our plan was to run just a couple of training events before the season started, mainly to gauge interest and see what worked. But the response was overwhelming, and we quickly found ourselves hosting monthly events… we just couldn’t say no!
These training days have helped us shape a format that really works. Thanks to member feedback, we’ve been able to design sessions that bridge the gap between simulated training and real-life working scenarios. They’re practical, inclusive, and tailored to different experience levels, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your dog’s skills.
Looking ahead, we’ll be rolling out a variety of training days throughout the year to suit all abilities. But one of the most exciting developments is our plan to launch a competitive league after the season ends. Running from May to September, this monthly series will give members the chance to enter their dogs into test-style scenarios in a fun, supportive environment. It’s all about learning, growing, and enjoying the journey together.
We can’t wait to share more as the year unfolds, watch this space!
NGC trainer Fran Ardley photographed by Nick Ridley
We share your enthusiasm for the events to come in 2026! You have a live game session scheduled in November, a rare opportunity to train on a shoot. Why is it so beneficial to train in a live environment?
Training in a live shoot environment is incredibly valuable for both handlers and dogs. It offers a level of realism that simply can’t be replicated in simulated settings. The sights, sounds, scents, and unpredictability of a working shoot provide a dynamic learning experience that helps dogs build confidence, focus, and steadiness under pressure.
For handlers, it’s a chance to observe how their dogs respond in real-time situations, whether it’s marking game, navigating terrain, or working alongside other dogs and people. It also helps identify areas for improvement that might not be obvious during controlled training sessions.
We’re really excited about the November live game training event because it allows our members to experience this kind of training in a supportive, educational setting. It’s not about perfection, it’s about growth, learning, and preparing dogs for the demands of the field in a way that’s safe, constructive, and fun.
What advice do you have for readers who may be newcomers to field sports but are interested in getting started with gundog training?
Starting your gundog journey can feel a bit daunting at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding, and there’s a place for everyone, no matter your background or experience.
The most important first step is to find a reputable trainer whose style and approach you feel comfortable with. Training methods can vary quite a bit, so it’s essential to work with someone who encourages and supports you, and allows you to progress at your own pace. Every dog and every handler is different, so patience and understanding are key.
Once you’ve built a solid foundation and feel confident in your training, you might find yourself curious about working your dog in the field. If that’s the case, reach out to local shoots and ask if you can come along to observe. Seeing a shoot day in action is a great way to understand how everything works and decide if it’s something you’d like to be part of.
Above all, enjoy the process. Gundog training is as much about building a bond with your dog as it is about skills and the journey is just as special as the destination.
Lyndsey "Canine Coach" working on an NGC training day
A controversial question to end the interview… in your own opinion, which is the best gundog breed and why?
Ah, the age-old debate! It really depends on who you ask because we’re firmly split on this one. Frankie is proudly Team Labrador, while I’m all about the Spaniels. So, naturally, we’re never going to agree!
That said… actions speak louder than words. Frankie recently added a spaniel to her team of labs, which says a lot! Clearly, she couldn’t resist the charm, drive, and sheer enthusiasm that spaniels bring to the field. Maybe she knew she was missing out after all?
At the end of the day, every gundog breed has its strengths and we love them all. But we’ll probably keep this friendly rivalry going for a while yet!
