Christmas at River Cottage Christmas at River Cottage episode guide

2. Deer for dinner

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2. Deer for dinner (Image 2 of 8)

This year Hugh has fired the turkey from the Christmas menu opting for a meat a little more red blooded. He's after venison and not just any venison. As it's Christmas, Hugh's set his sights on the finest Sika deer.

Sika deer were introduced to Britain from Japan in the 18th century but, beautiful as they are, they have to be controlled by a yearly cull plan, which ensures a sustainable amount of deer are kept in tip top condition. Hugh's been enjoying the taste of Sika deer for a while now but this year he's decided to get more up close and personal and accompanies Richard the gamekeeper out with his gun.

In order to ensure a humane kill, Hugh takes in some target practice before taking aim with the real thing. With bated breath Hugh takes his shot and the stag is down. But it's with mixed feelings that he brings home his prey. "It's a curious mixture of exhilaration and regret," Hugh admits. "But putting something on the table that you've killed yourself for Christmas is a quite an intense way to make a feast."