GAME is on the menu at a new exhibition opening this week at The Robert Fuller Gallery in Thixendale.

Wildlife artist Robert Fuller sets his sights on game birds at an exhibition that includes a line-up of Yorkshire’s most celebrated countryside figures.

The Wolds artist’s latest exhibition, Glorious Game Birds, opens on Saturday and runs until November 28, showcasing a new collection of oil paintings featuring pheasant, grouse and partridge.

Robert travels the world to study his subjects, but is best known for his depictions of British wildlife. His detailed realistic style has earned him the custom of the National Trust and the RSPB.

Alongside a display of his latest artwork featuring animals and birds from all over the world, Mr Fuller will be exhibiting photographic studies of game birds and educational boards that offer an enchanting look at the history of these birds and their place in the countryside today.

“Christmas in the countryside wouldn’t be the same without game birds,” said Mr Fuller.

“The jewel-like plumage of a pheasant streaking against snow or bright red legs of French partridge padding through winter stubble is the perfect picture to paint.”

There will also be appearances from TV vet Matt Brash and locally-acclaimed chef Daniel Farrell.

Dan, chef at the Bay Horse Inn at Burythorpe, will be showing visitors how to cook game for the perfect ‘country Christmas’ on November 22, while gardener Gilda Brader, whose garden in Thixendale is regularly opened to the public under the National Gardens Scheme, and theatre costume designer Jennie Palmer, will be making Christmas decorations for the table on November 16.

Also in the line up of guests set to appear at the exhibition is the naturalist Michael Flowers, who will be running a series of nature walks into the Wolds countryside to find red kites and spot winter migrants throughout the exhibition.

TV vet Matt Brash, meanwhile, will bring to life the paintings of animals displayed in the gallery as he talks about his experiences caring for exotic beasts as a zoo vet on November 18.

The exhibition is free and opens daily, 11am-4.30pm. To book one of the special events, phone 01759 368355. Ticket prices vary from £5-£7.50 and spaces are limited. For details, visit www.robertEfuller.com