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My first contact with Darren Kirk was before I purchased my cocker, I was given his name via a gundog forum and advised he was a local trainer who would be able to advise me. In my experience Darren is always willing to share his knowledge and experience. When my cocker was 7 months of age I began monthly one to one lessons with Darren, as Paddy was my first cocker I needed training as a handler and I particularly wanted a trainer who was patient and kind.

Darren’s displays extensive knowledge of the gundog world and his sensitive approach allows him to relate to both handlers and young dogs, take raw talent and transform it into the makings of a good working partnership. He has always demonstrated exercises to a high standard with his own dogs, shown how timing is the key, firm but fair handling and methodically and calmly explained each exercise, teaching each dog according to their ability rather than their age. He always highlights potential problems that handlers can inadvertently cause and how to prevent them and relates each exercise to it’s relevance in the field. His ability to highlight the positives and suggest ways of problem solving with a confident attitude and belief in my dogs ability has been a source of valuable help and encouragement to myself.

Through Darren I’ve had the opportunity to develop my skills as a handler in environments that have tested us to a greater level. We’ve had the opportunity to work one to one, in groups, undertake working tests, dogging in and mock beating. Last year Darren arranged for me to become part of his beating team and I had the opportunity to learn the ropes without my dog, who at that time was still young. This year my cocker has started his first season beating, again arranged by Darren and has completed two days up to now. There was a time when I doubted that we would reach this point, I picked a head strong boy and have had many a struggle with training and on several occasions I’ve become exasperated when things were not going to plan. Darren has always believed I could train my cocker to a high standard and I have no doubt that without his guidance, continued support, the training and beating opportunities he has facilitated and the friends I have made through being part of the Kirkbourne Team I wouldn’t be at the stage we are now.
It is a pleasure to now see some of the young dogs that I’ve trained alongside with Darren now out in the field working and seeing the effective working parterships we have developed into.

Michele Martin and Paddy

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I first started training with Darren Kirk at Kirkbourne gun dogs approximately 1 year ago with an 11 month full of life cocker spaniel. I started as a complete novice to Gundogs and training, with a goal of having a dog that I could one day work with confidence.
Kirkbourne gun dogs helped me every step of the way from week 1 when I didn't even know the sit command, supporting me all the way to my first time on the beating line. The learning environment Kirkbourne provide a novice handler is second to none & every problem I've come across with my cocker Darren has helped me work through & overcome.
I've been to a number of gun dog trainers before I found Kirkbourne gun dogs and am sorry to say that if you didn't turn up in a land rover or your face doesn't fit then they look down their nose at you, well this doesn't happen at Kirkbourne - everyone is welcome.
Darren's training methods are easy to understand and every technique is broken down in to manageable steps which can be carried out at home.

Phil English owner of a fully working cocker spaniel

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When I look back over the year I can see how far my dogs (Cassie and Tess) have come. It is with big thanks to one gundog trainer that has now also become a great friend.
I first met Darren two year ago whilst he was running the working test at Selby Game Fair. I entered Cassie in the test but she had a little problem as every time I sent her for a retrieve she would yap. Darren asked me if I knew why she was doing this and I said “no”. He mentioned that I was winding her up for the retrieve which resulted in the yap. He suggested I send her again but in a quiet and calm manner. She did not yap!

Darren runs Kirkbourne Gun Dog Club and asked me to come along. I was very impressed so much so I joined the club and have been going ever since. Kirkbourne Gun Dog Club is very friendly and all who go are made to feel very welcome.
I would like to thank Darren and all he has taught me and my dogs. I am so glad I carried on with the training.
Cheers mate! Dave Cocking, Cassie and Tess