Show gets set for visitors to 87-stand exhibition halls this February

Get the low-down on flies, fly-tying and fly fishing at the show.

The British Fly Fair International is making preparations for its first public show in two years at the Staffordshire Agricultural Showground in north-west England in mid-February.

Tyers and exhibitors are lining up to display their wares and skills over the weekend of February 12 & 13 in the large three-hall event centre, and Covid protection guidelines for attendance have now been released.

Attendees will be required to produce evidence of vaccination (or a negative test) and face masks will be required to be worn by customers and staff. The high-ceilinged halls will be well ventilated, sanitising stations will be provided, used surfaces will be cleaned regularly, and customers will be able to ‘check-in’ and support NHS Test and Trace. In addition, signage displaying key Covid-protection messages, in line with the latest Government advice and guidance, and specific, lidded pedal bins will be for the disposal of face coverings and PPE.

Steve Cooper, who organises the BFFI, told FF&FT that he’d been advised and was hopeful that the current Covid infection numbers should peak within the next week, and numbers would have calmed down by the time the event takes place.

87 exhibition stands are booked to fill the halls, and a full complement of 43 tyers will be demonstrating along the Veniard Fly Tyers Row. Liam Walsh will be running Junior Fly Tying lessons in a specially set up ‘classroom’ (equipment provided) – see BFFI website for further information.

On the FF&FT stand, Billy Scott (sea trout), Connor MacLennan (mixed flies) and Tomas Kolesinskas (salmon) will be tying on the stand, where an enticing subscription offer will be available.

Doors open both days 9.30am, and close at 4.30pm. Tickets in advance (retainable for next year if the show is cancelled due to Covid restrictions) at: https://bffi.co.uk

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