A CARRYDUFF country sports enthusiast has been honoured with a major award.
John Leighton, who is the president of the Ulster Gundog League, has been presented with The Great Game Fairs of Ireland lifetime achievement award.
The awards, made each year at the Irish Game Fair at Fine Food Festival held at Shanes Castle, Antrim, are designed to recognise and reward outstanding individuals who devote themselves to nurturing rural heritage.
Announcing John’s award, Albert Titterington, managing director of The Great Game Fairs of Ireland, said: “It is an absolute pleasure each year to have the opportunity publicly to recognise some of the outstanding members of the game show family who commit their time, talents and enthusiasm to preserving rural traditions and promoting country sports.
“These people work tirelessly behind the scenes and without any thought of reward — and John epitomises that blend of modesty and high achievement.
“Over the years John has enjoyed considerable sporting success with the dogs he trains and we have been proud to have enjoyed his support and insight as he served as spaniels director’ with our fairs, shaping competitions and ensuring top quality entries.”
Mr Titterington said Mr Leighton’s 40 years of gundog competition experience commanded “instant respect in gundog circles” and described him as a “popular figure across this island and beyond”.