James Martin, the presenter of James Martin’s Saturday Morning, has expressed his deep bond with his pet dog, Cooper. Cooper, a cocker spaniel, has been in training with Jason Mayhew for five years, and has even competed in an agility course, topping the leaderboard. James Martin is set to host The Investec Enclosure restaurant at The Game Fair next month, where he will also bring Cooper along with him. Martin has designed the game-based menu for the event and will be mingling with diners during breakfast and lunch service.
Martin credits his fascination with man’s ability to train dogs to a gamekeeper in his village who used to look after the Castle Howard estate. The gamekeeper had an impeccably trained gundog called Jett, who would sit without a lead and wait for his owner to return. Martin has also spoken about his love for spending time outdoors in the UK, particularly in Scotland and the New Forest.
Martin, who is 50 years old, is also a proud owner of a Lhasa Apso called Ralph, and shares both dogs with his TV producer girlfriend, Louise Davies. Martin was brought up on a pig farm and has always been passionate about farming, food and the countryside. He resides in Hampshire, just outside Winchester, which provides him with ample outdoor space.
The Game Fair, celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, will take place from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 July at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire.