Ritchie Blackmore discusses Deep Purple reunion as UK shooting community receives disruption advice

Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has reflected on his recent reunion with Deep Purple, describing the performance as a “very emotional” moment. After more than 30 years away from the band he co-founded, Blackmore joined the group on stage to perform “Smoke on the Water.” He noted that the experience was less about technical precision and more about reconnecting with old friends, stating, “I was there to heal any wounds — but there weren't any wounds.”

In separate news, the Countryside Alliance has released practical guidance for shoot managers in the United Kingdom to address potential disruptions from saboteurs. The advice covers legal protections, such as the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, which classifies aggravated trespass as a criminal offence. The guidance encourages managers to involve police and use film footage to support potential prosecutions for criminal activity.