As we spend the fair weather getting our eye in on simulated days and clay shooting grounds, we sit down with Alastair Phillips, General Manager of William Evans to discuss his love of the sport and what he looks forward to this season.

When did you first start shooting and what was your first impression?
I first started shooting at age 10 with a .22 Weirauch air rifle in search of rabbits. I didn’t get to pheasants until I was 16 when I would load for my uncle, granted the odd shot here and there. I have since loved everything to do with shooting, whether .22 rim fire at five bull targets, game or clay!

What do you most look forward to on a day's shooting?
One of the things that I love about shooting is the variety. I love big days as much as smaller walking days or a day in the hide shooting over decoys. Ideally, shooting with people who are genuine. Shooting with close friends is a bonus but I have met so many nice people in the field.

What is your pick of food and drink when shooting?
Definitely a good pork pie is my absolute guilty pleasure! For drink - it would be Kings Ginger Liqueur.

Given your role in the gun trade, do you ever feel the pressure when on the peg?
The pressure starts before I even get my gun out! The first ever time that I shot with a client I was very nervous and was reflected in my shooting. It got to the point that the rest of the guns stopped mocking me and started being nice – that’s when you really know you’re having a shocker! The client in question, was so kind and invited me back the following season to have another crack at it and redeem myself. Which, luckily, I did. 

Alastair's shooting must haves: