About Kirkbourne Spaniels
BEHIND THE WHISTLES
Darren Kirk is a highly experienced and accomplished gundog trainer with over 30 years of experience in the field.
Darren's passion for working with dogs began at an early age, and he has dedicated his career to helping dogs become successful working companions.
Over the years, Darren has developed a deep understanding of canine behaviour and psychology, and he has built his training methods over the years based on learning from dogs actions and reactions to tasks; constantly adapting. Training all gundog breeds his expertise is unmatched.
Darren has been recognised for his outstanding achievements in the field of gundog training, being awarded the title of "Gundog Trainer of the Year" in the UK more than once. This prestigious accolade is a testament to his dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence in his work.
Most recently, in 2023, Darren was once again awarded "Gundog Trainer of the Year" in the UK. This honor reflects the continued success and growth of his business, as well as the deep respect he has earned from his peers in the industry.
Darren's training approach is based on positive reinforcement, and he believes in building a strong bond between the dog and its owner. He works closely with his clients to understand their needs and goals, and he tailors his training programs to suit their individual requirements.
Clients across the UK seek out Darren's expertise and knowledge, and he has a loyal following of satisfied customers. He is known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and his ability to deliver results. His commitment to his craft is an inspiration to all who work with him.
Overall, Darren Kirk is a highly skilled and accomplished gundog trainer with over 30 years of experience. He is a true professional in every sense of the word, and his dedication to his work and his dogs is an inspiration to all who know him.
Meet the Kirkbourne Team
Trainer
Mark Simpson
Mark is one of our trainers who covers both Novice and Intermediate. He shows a great understanding to handlers and their requirements. A valued member of our team at Sprotbrough, Upton Rugby Club and Adel.
Mark joined Kirkbourne in 2022 and has a number of dogs (Labradors and cocker spaniels) all of whom are used in the working field as well as during demonstrations at our shows.
Events Manager and Trainer
Bryony Cameron
Bryony has been with Kirkbourne since 2019, where she became the events and social media Manager. She is now also our puppy class trainer at both Sprotbrough and Adel.
Bryony owns 2 cocker spaniels, Maya and Sky, with whom she has taken part in a number of working tests, winning awards with each. But mostly she enjoys working her dogs in the field.
Kirkbourne Assessor
Milly Martin
Our longest standing and founding member for Kirkbourne Spaniels club! Michele Martin, better known as Milly, is our assessor for all the train to win assessments.
Milly has been in the club from day 1; cica 17 years. She has trained cockers and labradors, working and competing with all of them. Milly has also competed in ‘The Kirkbourne Team’ 5 times. Although she has now hung up her training bag she is, and always will be, part of the Kirkbourne family.
FRIENDS OF KIRKBOURNE
BRANDECOSSE
Our range of country boots stand as a testament to the bootmakers craft. Seamlessly pairing timeless designs with the latest in footwear innovation
A sponsor from nearly the beginning of Kirkbourne becoming more than a few friends meeting in a field! Their products are second to non, with many a 'feet in' photo of more than 50% of a training field or Kirkbournre training day wearing their boots. These are life long items and friends.
VetSpec
VetSpec is owned by experienced nutritionists whose aim is to achieve excellence in every aspect of canine nutrition from selection of the highest quality ingredients, creating innovative, excellent formulae, manufacturing to the highest European standards and providing comprehensive nutritional advice to clients.
VetSpec was a shift in the approach to nutritional thinking to the Kirkbourne kennel. Providing food which supports varying requirements for each dog, VetSpec has made a big difference in a very short space of time.
MITTON HALL KENNEL SYSTEMS
Specialising in crafting kennels and catteries, their structures range from intimate backyard havens to expansive, custom-built boarding facilities. Each creation, whether serving as a permanent residence for your beloved cat or dog or a peaceful holiday retreat, reflects their unwavering commitment to quality.
Kirkbourne's newest sponsor, the quality and service is second to non; the best the Kirkbourne dogs have been kenneled in to date! The experience and knowledge of the Mitton Hall team is exceptional.
