In this week's issue, we look ahead to the season's prospects for lowland shoots — will it be a bumper year, despite the weather? Plus, invaluable tips for the first-time shoot host

Looking ahead at the wild game prospects for this season with the Game Conservancy Trust Hosting a day: David Tomlinson makes sure his day goes with a bang, and offers advice for others Kate Gatacre visits the Medway marshes to learn about the UK's largest wildfowling club, the Kent Wildfowling and Conservation Association Why Blue Zulu simply loves to “stop the pigeon” on a day’s shooting Vet Harvey Carruthers offers advice on problems to which Clumber spaniels are susceptible Taking stock: how to deal with shooting-related shoulder injuries Richard Purdey tests VW’s Touareg — will it measure up to a shoot’s requirements?