Menu
The Stalking Show is more than just an event, it’s a gathering of people who live and breathe country sports, rural life, and the values that come with them.
This year’s Community Awards celebrated individuals who have made a lasting impact, not just through their work, but through their commitment to others and the wider community.
Rob Collins – “The Hedge Creeper”
The first award of the night was presented to Rob Collins, often known as The Old Hedge Creeper, a man who has inspired not just a few, but hundreds of young people.
Rob is the passionate force behind Pass It On Young Sports, a national movement dedicated to introducing children and young people to rural sports and giving them that vital connection to the land.
The award came as a complete shock.
“Holy heck – no way! Get outta here! Deanne emailed me to ask me to stay on the Saturday evening… I assumed it was a voucher or something. I am still overwhelmed – like wow!”
Rob describes The Stalking Show as:
“It’s a show by country sport people, for country sport people – no candyfloss and extras.”
He also says it “feels almost like a family.”
Despite having received many honours, including a British Empire Medal awarded by His Majesty The King, this one stands apart:
“In some ways this award means more than most as I’m being recognised by people within my own industry.”
Pass It On Young Sports began with humble beginnings and has grown into a national volunteering organisation, even making an impact globally. “It’s very much a team effort. We are all volunteers giving time, effort and equipment.”
At its core, the initiative builds confidence, resilience, and real-life skills – often opening doors to careers young people may never have considered.
Jose Souto
A long-standing member of The Stalking Show community, Jose Souto is widely respected for his depth of knowledge and passion for game.
With a career spanning prestigious establishments and now as Senior Chef Lecturer at Westminster Kingsway College, Jose continues to train the next generation of chefs while championing sustainable food.
His message is clear: “Stalking is about the whole story of the animal and how it is harvested, not just pulling the trigger.”
At this year’s show, his demonstration drew strong interest, focusing on preparation, breaking down game, and getting the very best from it at home. “It’s not a conventional show. People want to know about the prep… and how to get the best out of it.”
From elk and mouflon to zebra and springbok, his showcase reflected both global experience and deep respect for the craft.
When asked about the award, he said:
“Absolutely flabbergasted! I’m chuffed to bits… and very humbled.”
For Jose, stalking is about sustainability, responsibility, and the journey from field to plate.
Charlie Blance
Charlie Blance’s journey into the industry is one of determination and resilience.
“At 17 I came into this industry as an outsider, I had no contacts, no community and no clue – but I knew I wanted to work with deer.”
Since then, she has built a career across gamekeeping, deer management, and forestry, while also sharing her journey online.
Through her openness, she has inspired others to follow a similar path.
“Recently I have had two younger women tell me that I’m one of the reasons they have pursued a career in deer… and honestly that’s reward enough for me.”
Despite being uncomfortable in the spotlight, her impact is undeniable.
Winning the award came as a surprise:
“I think I said something stupid like ‘I’m gonna be sick and I’ve eyed up all the exits’…”
But her gratitude is clear, even if recognition doesn’t come easily.
Stile (Ian & Rachel Sweetman)
Stile is a new social media platform created specifically for fieldsports, farming, and rural life.
Founded by Ian and Rachel Sweetman, it was born out of frustration with censorship, restrictions, and the challenges of sharing rural content on mainstream platforms.
Instead of stepping back, they built something new.
A space where rural voices are not just accepted but celebrated.
“We were completely shocked… I don’t think I can put into words how much this award means.”
Launched in early 2025, Stile is steadily growing, with a focus on genuine engagement and supporting small businesses.
“Running your own small business gives you an understanding of how hard it is to build something from scratch.”
Their mission aligns closely with The Stalking Show itself, championing independent voices and strengthening the community.
A Community Worth Celebrating
The Stalking Show Community Awards are about more than recognition.
They highlight the people who give their time, share their knowledge, and quietly shape the future of this industry.
From mentoring young people to preserving traditions and building new platforms, each winner represents a different part of a shared story.
And together, they show exactly what makes this community so strong.
