All eyes have been watching the harvest come in amid anticipation of the first day of the new season.

Somehow though, no matter how many months there are between the last day’s hunting in the spring to the start of autumn hunting, the new season still manages to quietly creep up and it never gets any easier to be fully prepared.

The fat, unfit and long-maned hunters have been doing roadwork for weeks while you have been patiently watching the crops ripen and hounds have been building up their fitness, first with their hunt staff on bikes before mounted hound exercise took over.

Those with superstitious tendencies may have already got their lucky lightweight breeches out and their favourite hunting numnah washed and clean, however for those who aren’t quite so prepared, Horse & Hound offers a few tips on what to remember ahead of your first day autumn hunting so you don’t appear late, flustered and unkempt in front of masters and hunt staff — both new and old.

1. Track down your tweed hacking jacket and give it a thorough clean. The tweed may be adept at disguising the mud but it would be great to start the season with good intentions, even if they do slip slightly after weeks of early starts. Fish out any of last season’s mint humbugs that may have stuck to the lining and re-stock with fresh essentials.

2. Remember that autumn hunting mornings can be warm — especially if your horse gets lit up at the start of the season and you’re perhaps not as fit as you might be — so try to track down a short-sleeved shirt with a collar and leave your thermal stock shirt at home. You might want to check the top button is still on it too — nothing worse than stabbing yourself when trying to thread a needle at 4.30am on a hunting morning then blotting blood all over your clean shirt…

Continued below…

PICS: 16 riders reach the point of no return

• 21 June, 2015 - 12:05

We’ve all been there — one minute you’re enjoying the ride of your life and the next you experience that More…

3. Find your hunting tie and get it cleaned if you need to — it is bound to still have either horse slobber on it or a bit of crusty egg-yolk from the last Hunt Supporters Club breakfast.

4. Makes sure you’ve visited your cobbler (or got yourself measured up for some new boots) if you find the soles have somehow come adrift from your hunting boots while sitting in the cupboard. Take a good look at the insides too to make sure they don’t need any holes patching up and track down the missing garter strap that had to double as a spur strap when one snapped on a gatepost last season. While on the subject of spurs, you had better find those too and give them a polish, and don’t forget your hunting whip.

5. Relocate your hunting cap, crash cap or headwear of choice and make sure it is comfortable — gentlemen should get a haircut if required and ladies should splash out on a new hairnet rather than wearing two with giant holes in the opposite way around to make sure errant hairs don’t poke out.

6. Make sure you have your horses’ travel wardrobe sorted out too. A lightweight cooler — most probably at the very bottom of the rug pile — will almost definitely be of most use before clipping during early autumn, while a tail bandage or tail guard is a must (unless you want to arrive with the proverbial bog-brush excuse of a tail). You might also want to clean your “hunting bridle” with a stronger bit and noseband combination to ensure you don’t spend the morning having your arms pulled out of their sockets.

7. The condition of horseboxes and other methods of transport should always be of paramount importance and safety checks to ensure that lights are working, the floor and walls are safe and the tyres are properly inflated go without saying. Just remember to take the wheelclamp off and check the handbrake on the trailer hasn’t been pulled up firmly over the summer though — there’s nothing worse than hitching up and pulling forward to find all wheels are locked tight and you’re digging grooves into the area where you’ve parked… laying underneath it before sunrise banging the brake drums with a large spanner to release them in your clean breeches is not ideal.

8. And finally… don’t forget to have a shorter girth ready for when your horse eventually loses that extra inch or two of summer flesh. Trying to make-do with the long one you’ve been using for weeks could cause embarrassment when you leap off to open a gate then slide ungraciously round when trying to re-mount.

Cycling through the parks of Amsterdam with our sons and their Dutch cousins en route to the zoo, we found ourselves caught up in Gay Pride. A massive party on the city’s canals in a capital without skyscrapers, I was struck by the similarities between our own countryside marches and this very continental version of an international event.

They both had a completely non-threatening, hugely social and carnival atmosphere. There may have been more comedy pink hairdos, sailor hats and recreational drugs at Gay Pride than at any of the marches, at least that I recall, but they share common principles — tolerance and celebrating a minority. Next summer, maybe we should have a flotilla down the Thames — Hunting Pride.

The new season is looming and final preparations are being made. It is time to run through the checklist… land changed hands, farms handed on to the next generation, new kit, new subscribers etc.

Repairs to hunting kit are best carried out before the eve of the first morning’s autumn hunting — major repairs may need the attention of tailor or seamstress.

I was recently handed down a case of Bedford cord and cavalry twill breeches. These beautifully-made pre-war garments will have life today if I can only find someone skilled to widen the calves. Those who hunted the Elysian Fields clearly didn’t have to do the pre-season cycling and walking country of their modern counterparts.

As traditional bootmakers and cobblers become increasingly rare, repairs become trickier. New boots require a mortgage, so careful maintenance is essential.

Check the tack too. Stitching repairs can save blushes and bruises! New kit and tack may have to be broken in, and some people are very superstitious about using something new for the first time out hunting.

Preparations with hounds and horses should be nearly complete by now — young hounds settled on exercise, learning the ropes, and new horses fit and acclimatised to hounds. As the autumn progresses we like to include cross-country schooling, grid work and visits to the gallops to tune in horse and huntsman.

Few aspects of the master’s role are more satisfying than opening new country.

After walking the new territory and planning access routes, a quiet midweek autumn hunting morning is normally the safest tactic for exploring how best to hunt virgin country.

Subscribers like the excitement of hunting new country too. My desire to have the country accessible, with jumps, gates and my “special spots” in order to stay with hounds has to be matched by the field’s ability to have a good ride and keep up with the chase.

If the hunt is fortunate to have gained new members, a few words of welcome before the season often go down well.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 20 August 2015

It was the turn of the Fell hounds to take centre stage at Rydal Hound Show near Ambleside in Cumbria on 13 August.

Often described as “having a real holiday atmosphere,” this is one of the most popular and looked-forward to hound shows of the summer, with many visitors then going on to Lowther Hound Show a few days later.

A large crowd of hunting enthusiasts gathered at Rydal’s scenic venue where there were three rings of judging to enjoy. The day commences with the show of the Coniston hounds in the foxhounds ring, then the Fell hounds begin the open classes, where all seven registered packs put hounds forward.

Unlike the showing of the modern foxhound, Fell hounds are shown on their lead by their huntsman or their walker.

Repeating his success of last year was Blencathra Sergent, who took the Fell hound championship title before winning the supreme show championship ahead of the winners of the beagles, harriers and terriers championships. Holcombe Barrister 12 who had earlier landed the harrier championship took the reserve champion overall.

In the beagles classes, the Palmer Marlborough enjoyed a very successful day with Dancer 14 winning the entered doghound class and standing champion.

In addition to the hound show, as well as browsing the many trade stands, visitors to the show could also enjoy the associated sheep dog trials, stick show and hound trailing.

The Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire Beagles enjoy success with Wagtail, winner of the entered bitch hound class

Eskdale and Ennerdale Rascal claims the unentered bitch hound title

The Holcombe’s successful doghound Barrister 12 takes the harrier championship

Blencathra Matcham secures the unentered doghound class

Judging of the Fell hounds

Rydal Hound Show takes place in the scenic Cumbrian countryside

Members of a large crowd view the judging from the ringside

Supreme show champion, Blencathra Sergent with huntsman Barry Todhunter

For the full report and results, please see this week’s issue of Horse & Hound, on sale 27 August 2015

A hound and a spaniel have died after running onto a busy main road on Tuesday morning (25 August).

Twelve foxhounds, belonging to the Fitzwilliam Hunt, near Peterborough, ran on to the A47 (not pictured) early in the morning.

The hounds were being walked through Milton Park to meet the hunt horses to start their daily hound exercise.

At about 7.30am a group of hounds broke away from the pack along with a spaniel that was being walked in the same area.

A spokesman from the hunt said: “Together with the spaniel they ran through an area of woodland onto the east-bound carriageway of the A47.

“Regrettably the spaniel and a foxhound were killed by a passing car unable to take evasive action.

“So far as we are aware no-one was injured but one vehicle was damaged in this unfortunate and regrettable incident.”

Cambridgeshire police attended the incident which happened near the Bretton/Thorpewood junction of the busy A47.

Police were able to open the road to traffic again just after 9am.

Packs of hounds throughout the country are preparing hounds for the forthcoming season, with autumn hunting underway in some areas of the country where the harvest is complete.

Hunts regularly exercise their hounds either on foot or on bicycles throughout the spring and summer months, with mounted packs introducing horses as the season approaches.

This helps to improve fitness of both hounds and horses with both roadwork and cross country routes taken.

The Fitzwilliam Hunt, which has been established for over 250 years, have always kennelled their hounds in Milton Park. The pack of hounds have never been out of the ownership of the Fitzwilliam family. They hunt two days a week during the main season.

Setting out in the whiplash of a tropical thunderstorm for a morning’s autumn hunting in a huge expanse of near-coastal country — largely without feature above waist height — might be considered rash by some. Hounds loaded with customary enthusiasm, although my horse gave me a sideward look of incredulity as the ramp went up. He too must have seen the swathe of green and flashing red over the Romney Marsh on the weather forecast. I answered a few texts, asking whether (and why) we were really still going to hunt, and set out.

Arriving unusually early, we sat, buffeted, in the newly christened ark discussing whether to put my smart, new, red, huntsman’s sou’wester over my hunt coat or to dispense with the hunt coat altogether. The overcoat was formerly Stan Luckhurst’s, a kind gift from Mrs Luckhurst to a regularly drowned master.

Belt and braces won the day. Our hardy yet select field arrived in all manner of attire, but most importantly, eager to get hunting.

As reward for our efforts, the monsoon abated and dark skies parted to enable a most useful morning, after which I felt several pounds lighter having spent three active hours inside my strawberry plastic cocoon.

Clear requirements

As autumn progresses, some hunts are beginning to make their mastership and staffing arrangements in good time for next season. After decades of dedicated service, George Adams is retiring as huntsman of the Fitzwilliam. The advert for his successor was most refreshing and clearly stated what is required: a professional huntsman with experience to hunt hounds from 2016.

Of late, too many committees have the view that they will “see what is out there” before they decide what sort of arrangement they want. Usually they end up appointing nobody and muddling on, having caused unnecessary upset beyond their own hunt boundaries.

Hunting has few secrets and more than any appointment outside Parliament, everybody thinks they have a right to an opinion. Good people (and no doubt a few rogues too) put their jobs and reputations on the line, along with the trust of the mastership, committee, staff and country by applying for positions in their reasonable quest to climb the ladder, seek security or simply fresh pastures.

Implications for us all

Where were you when Jeremy Corbyn was elected to lead Her Majesty’s opposition? Hardly a JFK moment, I know, but as I sat in the car after a challenging morning’s autumn hunting, I thought that this shambles could have implications for us all, for years to come.

Have I missed something? On his chauffeur driven campaign tour, did Corbyn give some early-Obamaesque spine-tingling oration? No. With More’s Utopia under one arm and A Petulant Sixth Former’s Guide To The Galaxy under the other, the dull sound-bite solutions to the world’s genuine problems are worrying.

Now that the Labour Party is wearing the emperor’s old clothes, largely against its will, the Prime Minister will have to show great leadership to prevent his party from within becoming the government and the opposition. With the distinct possibility of an extended period of Tory administrations ahead, the new leadership of the Countryside Alliance and in time, VoteOK, has to redefine their relevance and message.

Corbyn’s noisy minority will cause hunting problems through every media possible, but we have to defend ourselves by re-establishing hunting’s considerable worth to the countryside, quarry, hound, horse and human.

As for JC appointing a vegan and animal rights supporter to shadow the farming brief; vegetables are a very important part of British farming but please don’t get me started.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 1 October 2015

Simon Lawrance, MFH, four-star event rider and UKCC Level 3 coach shares his thoughts on how hunting can help your horse’s training.

1. Hunting is excellent for horses that have got sour in competition or training and need sweetening up.

2. It is great for strengthening — they are working for a long time without being asked to do very difficult things.

3. It makes them tougher and less “precious”, and able to cope with different types of ground and going.

Continued below…

10 ways to develop a fifth leg cross-country

• 14 February, 2015 - 12:35

International coach William Micklem offers advice on teaching your horse to have a "fifth leg" going cross-country — in an More…

4. It makes them braver and more forward-thinking.

5. It improves their ability to get themselves out of trouble and teaches them to find a “fifth leg”.

6. It is a fun way of getting horses fit, particularly warmbloods and those which are inclined to be stuffy.

7. It teaches them to gallop and improves one-paced horses by making them more competitive.

8. It accustoms them to being around other horses in potentially exciting environments.

9. Remember that it is not going to suit every horse, but most — not all — can settle to it in time.

10. I recommend taking a young horse to some competitions before he goes hunting so that the rider can assess how he is likely to behave in public with other horses.

11. Hunting also has huge benefits for the rider. It is excellent for improving strength and fitness, and teaches them to deal with the unexpected. They learn to ride up and downhill, to cross a variety of terrains and how to conserve their horse’s energy. Anyone who rides would benefit from going hunting.

12. It allows both horse and rider to have fun and relax in each other’s company without pressure.

This article was first published in H&H’s Ask The Trainer (Summer 2014)

Are you looking to introduce your child to the hunting field? Or perhaps they are already hunting mad and are looking for the perfect partner to cross any country with. If so, don’t miss this selection of hunting ponies for sale on the Horse & Hound website this week.

1. ‘Loves to jump’

Height: 14.2hh

Age: seven

Gender: mare

Selling points: “This homebred mare is a fantastic hunting/Pony Club pony. She has hunted since she was four-years-old and happily stands on her own or goes at the front. She would be perfect to do PC novice/intermediate eventing with next year. She never stops and evented at 90cm level last year. References available.”

View the advert

2. ‘Connemara saint’

Height: 14.2hh

Age: 12

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “This pony has enjoyed many wins at county level showing and is a super safe hunter. He is a steady, careful jumper with great conformation and a snaffle mouth. He hacks alone or in company, goes first or last and really looks after his rider. He has perfect manners and is easy to do in all respects.”

View the advert

3. ‘Fabulous hunting pony’

Height: 14.1hh

Age: 10

Gender: mare

Selling points: “This pony is not at all mareish. She is a seasoned hunting pony who has also whipped-in. She knows her job inside out, is snaffle mouthed and has even paraded hounds at a county show. She has done PC activities and has three good paces. Good to do.”

View the advert

Continued below…

6 wonderful working hunters for sale this week *PICTURES*

• 10 October, 2015 - 08:25

Have you been inspired by the Horse of the Year Show and quite fancy giving showing a go? Take a More…

7 super schoolmasters for sale this week *PICTURES*

• 3 October, 2015 - 08:25

Are you looking for the ultimate all-rounder to teach you the ropes? Take a look at our pick of schoolmasters More…

4. ‘Immaculate on the hunting field’

Height: 14.1hh

Age: 10

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “A real all-rounder who loves his hunting. He stands quietly while hunting and goes first or last. Excellent at gate opening, never strong or silly and is good with hounds. He could make a very good working hunter pony and he has also been a successful racing pony. He has done all PC activities including dressage and showjumping. 100% safe on the roads wth excellent stable manners.”

View the advert

5. ‘Amazing hunting pony’

Height: 14.2hh

Age: 12

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “This pony will jump anything. He hunted two days per week last season and he has also hunted in Ireland. He has showjumped up to BS foxhunter, accumulating 222 BS points and has done PC teams. He has nice paces, would possibly event and is vice free.”

View the advert

6. ‘Super cool boys’ pony’

Height: 14.1hh

Age: 10

Gender: gleding

Selling points: “‘Huggy’ really is your ultimate fun boys’ pony. He has seen his current rider through the Pony Club, school team competitions and hunting. He works nicely on the flat but loves his jumping most of all. He is a brilliant hunter and loves to be at the front. He jumps anything and really looks after his jockey.”

View the advert

7. ‘Lots of fun’

Height: 12hh

Age: 14

Gender: gleding

Selling points: “‘Storm’ loves hunting and jumps sizeable hedges and timber. He has regularly attended Pony Club and local shows and is frequently in the ribbons. He is not a novice or nervous ride as he can be strong, however for the right jockey he is lots of fun. He has no vices, lives in or out and is never sick or sorry.”

View the advert

NB: Horse & Hound has not checked the accuracy of the claims made in these adverts and cannot be held liable if the information included above is inaccurate in any way

View more horses for sale on horseandhound.co.uk

Are you looking to try hunting?

The Countryside Alliance’s (CA) annual newcomers’ week gives those new to the sport a chance to try hunting for the first time.

This year’s newcomers’ week runs from 17-24 October.

During this time, hunts across the country have organised events to attract new faces to the hunting field.

“Newcomers’ week grows year on year and it is heartening see more hunts organising events to introduce new faces to the hunting field, which is exactly the purpose of this week,” said Henrietta Rutgers of the CA.

Last year, the week introduced many hundreds of new people to trail hunting and hunting under the Act and the CA hopes to attract even more people in 2015.

Events range from jumping practice sessions to help mounted followers get their eye in after the summer break, to meets specifically tailored to those trying hunting for the first time, BBQs and tours of hunt kennels.

For more information call 02078409220 or visit: http://www.countryside-alliance.org/give-hunting-a-try-this-newcomers-week/

Meets and events for newcomers’ week 2015

• Axe Vale – Saturday 24 October. Details to be confirmed.
• Banwen – Tuesday 27 October. Newcomers’ and children’s meet. £5 cap for all – anyone welcome. Banwen PC Field in Onllwyn 11am. For further details contact Nia Godsmark by calling 07815 150193 or email niagodsmark@hotmail.com
• Blankney – Saturday 24 October. Newcomers’ meet. For further details contact Adrian Whitehead honorary secretary by calling 07771 507279.
• Carmarthenshire – Saturday 24 October. For more information contact Annette Kemp by calling 0789617001.
• Curre and Llangibby – Saturday 24 October at The Hall Inn, Gwehelog near Usk, 10am. For more information contact Charlotte Breese by calling 07703 269829 or 01594 530340.
• Dartmoor – Thursday 22 October 7pm. Newcomers’/Pony Club hunting evening followed by an 11am meet on Saturday 24 October at Buckfastleigh. Contact Amelia Eyston by calling 01548 821393 for more details.
• Dunston Harriers – Newcomers and children are welcome at meets on 17, 20 and 24 October. Also ditch jumping schooling morning for the novice or nervous. Contact Georgie Mann on 07968 827552 or Sue Pennell on 01953 788283 or email dunstonsocial@yahoo.co.uk for more information.
• Eggesford – 24 October, newcomers’ day, 28 October, Pony Club meet. For further details and location contact Graeme Holmes on 07971 597786 or email graeme.holmes@acutest.co.uk
• Fitzwilliam (Milton) Hunt – Saturday 17 October, 7.30am. For further details contact Karen Silcock by emailing karen@fitzwilliamhunt.com or call 01487 841722.
• The Grove & Rufford – Saturday 17 October. Further details from Jane Bowen by calling 07788523917.
• Jedforest – Newcomers’ meet with a talk/welcome from masters, followed by coffee, juice, bacon rolls and cake at the kennels. Further details from Jenny Pole 1jfalside@yahoo.co.uk or 07760 238596
• New Forest – Saturday 10 October at Janesmoor Pond, Stoney Cross. 9am start. Contact Penny Rendle on nfhhonsec@hotmail.com or 07775 722795.
• North Cotswold – Date to be confirmed and will be followed by breakfast in the barn. Also intending to do a pre-newcomers’ evening in a local pub. Contact Charlotte Russell on 01386 725423 or 07816 600605.
• North Lonsdale Foxhounds – 17 and 24 October. Newcomers’/Young Farmers’ days. Further details from Sue Thompson 07973961041 or sueandderekt@aol.com
• Oakley – 17, 20 and 24 October. All suitable for first-timers but Saturday 24 is specially for newcomers. Saturday 17 October – Lavendon Mill, Lavendon, MK46 4HJ at 8am; Tuesday 20 October, Astwood Grange, Astwood, MK16 9JT at 8am; Saturday 24 October, The Kennels, Melchbourne, MK441BN at 11am. Followed by a BBQ and tour around the kennels. For further details contact carolinegevans@hotmail.co.uk
• Pembrokeshire – Saturday 17 October, Clarbeston Road followed by hunt breakfast. Further details Gill Wilson 01437 741793.
• Royal Artillery Hunt – 2-4 October. Hunting clinic/newcomers weekend 2015. Lots going on for further details please contact Pippa Grob 07780 547696.
• Vine and Craven – Saturday 24 October. Please contact Lucinda Green on 07702 596029 for further details.
• Warwickshire – Saturday 24 October at Park Farm, North Newington, Banbury OX15 6AD at 8am. Details Charmian Green charmian.green@gmail.com

The leaves are turning, the nights are drawing in, the temperatures are dropping — and we couldn’t be happier. Autumnal colds and muddy gateways mean only one thing… opening meets are just around the corner.

Autumn hunting does a job, but we’re counting down the days for the real McCoy. And if you weren’t excited enough already, we’ve dug out nine photos of followers and hunt staff on flying form with breathtaking scenery thrown into the mix, that we can (almost) guarantee will give you the pre-season buzz…

1. The Fernie

A poster-worthy picture: the field during one of the last draws of the Fernie’s meet at Laughton near Market Harborough, Leicestershire.

2. The Dulverton West Foxhounds

Menacing skies: the Dulverton West meet at Molland, Exmoor in Devon.

3. The Quorn

What a sight: side saddle followers raise the glamour-stakes at the Quorn’s opening meet in 2012 at Kirby Bellars.

Continued below…

12 ways hunting can help your horse

• 14 October, 2015 - 17:20

Simon Lawrance, MFH, four-star event rider and UKCC Level 3 coach shares his thoughts on how hunting can help your More…

4. The Cottesmore

Perfect timing: Nicholas Leeming, Phoebe Buckley and Eddie Ahern out with the Cottesmore, hunting between Burrough-on-the-Hill and Owston.

5. The Belvoir

Making light work of it: the Belvoir meet at Sheepwash, near Harby.

6. The Staff College and RMA Sandhurst Drag Hunt

Octavia Pollock flies over this fence in style, out with The Staff College and RMA Sandhurst Drag Hunt in Hampshire.

7. The Fernie

Pausing for the view: the Fernie’s meet at Laughton near Market Harborough, Leicestershire.

8. The Portman

‘Let’s go!': this combination are on flying form out with the Portman.

9.  The Fernie

Rowan Cope, Master of the Pytchley, during the Fernie’s meet at Laughton near Market Harborough,  Leicestershire.

Hunting mad? Don’t miss our special hunting issue of Horse & Hound magazine, which hits the newsstands on 22 October and is packed with cracking hunting ponies and the essential hunting directory

Tributes have been paid to a hunting star that died following a team chasing accident.

Dai Harrison’s popular horse, Dutch, had been a stalwart of the Boring Gorings’ open team for the past few seasons.

The 12-year-old gelding was put down after sustaining a leg injury at the Berkeley team chase on 4 October.

By Catherston Liberator, the bay gelding came to the Harrisons’ yard in the summer of 2011 on the condition that he would not be sold.

Bred to event by Jan Whitehead, the horse found his forte on the hunting field.

Dai, who retired as a master of the Monmouthshire earlier this year, also let his son’s partner Tabby Prest borrow Dutch to learn side-saddle on.

“I rode him for a whole season side-saddle,” Tabby told H&H. “We both learnt together.”

With Dutch, Tabby became the first person to tackle the Royal Welsh inter-hunt relay riding side-saddle.

They combination also took second place in the Dianas of the Chase cross-country side-saddle race in 2014.

“Primarily, he was an amazing hunter who led the field flawlessly over all sorts of obstacles,” said Tabby.

“I have never seen him refuse a fence.”

She remembered how the first hunting fence she jumped side-saddle on him was a set of 1.10 rails — which he cleared with ease.

“He was really a horse for everybody — we are all predictably devastated,” she added.

The horse was featured in H&H’s report of the Meynell and South Staffs team chase, where the team came third in the open.

“My horse actually lacks turn of foot as he is part-warmblood — his grandsire was Dutch Courage — but he makes up for it with his turning and jumping,” Dai told H&H at the time.

Recently I was discussing the latest problem in our hunt with one of my joint-masters and I flippantly remarked, “Why do we do it?” With a very serious look on his face, he said: “For the children, so we can hand over to the next generation with everything intact.” He is right, of course.

Young people have far more distractions now than those of my age did. I am always delighted to see them coming out hunting. It is great to see the joy they get from it and for four hours they are unable to use a mobile phone for calling, texting, emailing or worse.

In that respect nothing has changed; hunting offers a complete getaway from the pressures of our busy lives. My generation is often heard to say, “We had the best of it,” and “There are no young people coming through,” but every peer group has made the same remarks. There are many young people enjoying hunting and it’s up to us to educate them, but not apply so much pressure that it frightens them away.

On the whole, people of my age do use the incredible technology available today, but many of us have not embraced it as our children have. This is their era and getting the maximum out of them may involve communicating with them through their preferred platforms — texting, Facebook, Snapchat, Whatsapp, etcetera. I have found that talking to a 14-year-old — or even shouting — does not work that well these days.

Hunting is no different from any other club, school or friendships that our youngsters may be part of. Perhaps finding young ambassadors nationwide to help us understand the different options would be a start. I am aware that the Master of Foxhounds Association is looking into this, along with ideas to help keep hunting relevant by using the mediums younger supporters use.

Hunting’s here to stay

Hunting’s future, as regards repeal, is in the balance, but hunting in its current form continues to survive and in some areas thrive. We should not underestimate the younger followers; they are as keen as we were.

You never know where your next supporter is coming from. My 13-year-old son has arrived at Stowe school this term and, having shown little interest in foxhounds, has thrown himself into the beagles and is loving it.

I was invited for the opening day of the season last week and enjoyed seeing him running through field upon field in pursuit of the genuine little hounds.

The beagles are hunted by Bertie Alexander (out of the Charles Frampton stable) and in him they have a huntsman of some class and style. He was so confident, quiet and assured that he is surely destined for the top.

We must all continue to work for repeal, but hunting is here to stay, it has to, for the next generation.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 25 October 2015

Those early season nerves at the meet are all too familiar… As is the moment you look across to see someone a sixth of your age and a quarter of your size, on a pony with barely-there legs merrily enjoying the occassion.

And then there is that heart-sinking moment when your 16.1hh “experienced hunter” is turning himself inside out at an insignificant set of rails, and that pony you spotted earlier sails over in front of you.

All hail for the budding thrusters of the future — they certainly know how to put us in our place…

Oliver Gillman

All the gear: four-year-old Oliver Gillman and his 26-year-old pony Tuffty enjoying their first day hunting with the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale last season.

Martha German

Fine style: Martha German shows the field how it’s done with her smart dun pony.

Livvia Krajnyk

Six-year-old Livvia Krajnyk gears up for a day out on Belchford Gwenno.

Continued below…

9 photos that are sure to get you excited for the hunting season

• 17 October, 2015 - 17:55

If you weren't excited enough already, we've dug out nine photos of followers and hunt staff on flying form with More…

Kathleen Curtin and Isobel Curtin

Sister act: Kathleen Curtin on Milly and Isobel Curtin on Freddy wait for the County Clare Hunt to arrive in Kilmihil, Co Clare, with with their grandfather Pat Curtin.

Holly and Seth

Worthy of a pairs’ competition: Holly and her best friend Seth, both two, on their ponies Star and Bart at the Chatsworth House meet with the Barlow Hunt.

Freddie Shutler

Freddie Shutler’s legs might not quite reach the bottom of the saddle flap, but he looks ready to get out autumn hunting with the Kimblewick.

Molly Shotton

Bad hair day? Molly Shotton’s pony’s mane is certainly not holding them back… Look out for mention of Molly and her super hunting pony in the feature about marvellous hunting ponies in H&H’s hunting special issue, on sale from 22 October.

Sasha Lawes

Mud, mud, glorious… Sasha Lawes would have been frantically searching for the vanish after her day out with the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray last season, however it hasn’t deterred her and she is all set for the season ahead.

Hunting mad? Don’t miss this week’s 20-page hunting special of Horse & Hound magazine, where we look at some of the best hunting ponies around, hunting literature that you won’t be able to put down PLUS the full hunting directory

Finian’s Rainbow, former winner of the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham and the Melling Chase at Aintree, has found a new career in the hunting field.

The 12-year-old, owned by Michael Buckley and trained by Nicky Henderson, is now with the Marchioness of Blandford.

Lady Blandford said: “It’s an honour just to sit on him, let alone hunt him. He is an absolute gentleman – he’s huge, a gentle giant – and it’s very flattering to have him.”

Finian’s Rainbow won a bumper and two hurdle races before going chasing in November 2010.

He won his first three races over fences, including the Grade Two Kingmaker’s Chase at Warwick, before finishing second to Captain Chris in the Arkle Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival.

He won the Maghull Novices’ Chase at Aintree and the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton before going on to beat Sizing Europe in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in 2012.

The Melling Chase that year was his last victory, and he retired from racing with an injury in November 2013.

“I took him showjumping to pop him over a fence before taking him hunting, and he has an unbelievable jump, as well as being very well-schooled,” added Lady Blandford.

“He has had one day’s autumn hunting with the Heythrop so far and will go again quietly like this week.

“We had a little trouble getting him to eat when he came, and now he has a glass of cider in his feed, night and morning, which he absolutely loves. He’s a lovely horse.”

Ever wondered how a field master knows what to do or thought you could do a better job than the person you have to follow out hunting?

Well it isn’t always as easy as some people manage to make it look but equally, if you understand hunting and know your country for a start, it isn’t quite as difficult as some field masters can make it look!

Getting in the way of hounds is a definite no-no, and jumping next to an open gate is also frowned upon, but what are the secrets to being a successful field master and ensuring order among those out hunting?

We asked some well-known and respected field masters, huntsmen and members of hunt staff for their top tips and points to remember as a field master.

Rowan Cope MFH — Pytchley Hunt

• Be sure that hounds come first and that you have a good understanding with your huntsman.
• It will take a few seasons to earn respect from your field and your farmers but ultimately that is what you strive to achieve.
• Be sure you have visited and contacted all the land owners whose land you plan to hunt on and you know whose field is whose if there was to be a problem.
• The field like a field master who can entertain them but who also has that certain wow factor which keeps them on their toes — popping over a hung gate off two strides often can sort them out!
• I’m not one to go on a joy ride, but when hounds go, there’s nothing better than following them in a straight line.

Mike Felton MFH — Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Hunt

• Know your country — that means walking every field and knowing how to get in/get out in different directions.
• When planning your jumping routes, try to mix them up so the field don’t start second guessing you.
• Heaven forbid that you lose hounds, but if you do, make sure you have learnt to read the countryside signals, for example, a flock of birds suddenly wheeling, stock moving in the distance, car followers high-tailing down a road and traffic slowed on a road.
• The biggest no-no is going where you have been asked not to or riding over the line where the trail has been laid.

Mark Hankinson — former master and huntsman of the Wilton

• The art is to stay just the right distance away from hounds — not so far back that no one can see the action but never on top of the huntsman.
• Remember that a huntsman hates nothing more than having the field breathing down his neck— everyone gets frustrated on a bad scenting day but trying to make hounds draw faster by riding on the huntsman’s heels is not the answer.
• Do your best to keep the field up together — hunts are often circular and having the tail-enders getting in the way is likely to turn the air blue.

Gary Thorpe — huntsman of the East Essex

• Walk your hunt country with your huntsman so you can both work on a planned draw.
• Good communication on a hunting day between huntsman and master is vital. There is no point the huntsman hunting a trail if the field master and members of the field aren’t able to follow you.

Philip Cowen MFH – Fernie Hunt

• Knowing all of the country in as much detail as you know the route to your local pub.
• When in doubt about which route to take, don’t be afraid to sit and wait for a while until you are certain of your decision. Rushing around like a headless chicken only makes the hole a whole load bigger.
• Remember that the huntsman is always right, but the Master is never wrong.
• And finally., never let anyone know too much about your plans for the day — however important they may be — as their enthusiasm to get ahead of you may only serve to ruin and frustrate all of the best-laid plans.

Derek Ricketts – field master of the Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase

• If you make a decision and get it wrong, stay positive and pretend you intended to go that way.
• Understand how your huntsman likes to hunt.
• Give the paying public as much fun and enjoyment as possible.
• Always be well mounted and well turned out.

Rory Knight Bruce — H&H hunting correspondent

• Remember that successful field mastering is only achieved by complete trust with the huntsman.
• When the huntsman is drawing, keep the mounted field a good field and a half away.
• Anticipate what is likely to happen and never stop the field in a gateway.
• Be firm with “skirters” or so called amateur whippers-in — some are purely hunting for themselves.
• Make sure there is someone out hunting who, if people can’t keep up, keeps an eye on the stragglers or the non-jumping field.
• Keep the pace of the day, for example. don’t stand looking at a row of hedges then jump them simply “to entertain the riders” when there are clearly gaps on either side. This is a discourtesy to the farmers and field mastering is about taking obstacles when hounds are running.

Will Dalton MFH – Kimblewick Hunt

• Keep things simple and give yourself time.
• Pick your best line to entertain the field. In many hunt countries, gone are the days of “following them in a straight line” but you need to try and follow in as straight a line as possible though.

Jeremy Reed MFH — Flint and Denbigh Hunt

• The ideal field master is as important as the huntsman — one looks after the field while the other must be able to shut himself from what is going on behind him to enable him to see and hear what the hounds are doing.
• Try to read the huntsman’s mind — this is near enough impossible but can be mastered with time!

Charles Carter MFH — West Norfolk Hunt

• Field mastering is a fairly thankless role with the potential for mistakes and grief, with very little praise.
• Above all, remember to keep smiling, keep thrusting and have fun because those behind you will follow suit.

Proposals to vary the terms of exempt hunting within the Hunting Act 2004 were not an “unexpected use of the powers” of the Defra Secretary of State, a report has found.

Suggested amendments to the act were due to be debated by MPs in July.

However, they were shelved after Scottish National Party MPs reversed their previous decision not to vote on legislation that does not affect Scotland.

The Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments (JCSI), made up of a cross section of MPs and Peers, revealed its report on 23 October and the findings have been welcomed by the Countryside Alliance.

Statutory Instruments are used to amend, update or enforce existing laws.

The JCSI has the responsibility to report on all statutory instruments that come before Parliament to ensure that amendments made this way are a correct use of ministerial powers.

The report confirms that the statutory instrument is a legitimate use of the Secretary of State’s powers to alter exemptions to the ban to allow pest control.

The changes would have included removing the “two dog” limit and allowing the flushing and shooting of foxes using packs of hounds — providing it was “appropriate” for the terrain and carried out as “efficiently” as possible. These proposed changes would have brought England and Wales into line with the law in Scotland.

Traditional hunting would still have remained illegal as the requirement to shoot foxes as soon as possible after they have been found would have remained.

“The report from the joint committee confirms that the Secretary of State’s proposals were reasonable and sensible amendments to a bad law,” said Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance.

“Whilst this report will be little consolation to farmers, especially in the uplands, who are struggling to control the fox population and protect their livestock from predation, it does vindicate the Government’s attempt to respond to their legitimate concerns.

“The need for proper wildlife management legislation based on principle and evidence, rather than ignorance and bigotry, is as strong now as it ever has been.”

The joint-master of the Cottesmore, Gems McCormick, has died due to an accident out hunting.

Ms McCormick was out with the Fitzwilliam (Milton) hunt yesterday (Wednesday, 4 November) when the accident happened.

She reportedly fell after a fence and suffered a head injury.

It was the Fitzwilliam’s opening meet, and the hunt has “expressed sincere condolences” to her family.

A spokesman for the Cottesmore said: “Gems was a wonderful joint-master and a generous supporter of the Cottesmore hunt. We were lucky to have her as a master from 2012. Always immaculately turned out quietly and efficiently fulfilling her role. She was a pleasure to go hunting with.”

The Cottesmore has cancelled its meet today (Thursday, 5 November) as a mark of respect.

“We are extremely sad to hear to the death of Gems. She was a huge supporter of hunting in Leicestershire and beyond,” said a spokesman for the Countryside Alliance.

“Hunting was a very big part of her life and she will be long missed by the Cottesmore country.”

Tributes have poured in for the joint-master of the Cottesmore, Gems McCormick, who has died after a fall out hunting.

Ms McCormick was hunting with the Fitzwilliam (Milton) hunt on Wednesday (4 November) when the accident happened.

She reportedly fell after a fence and suffered a head injury.

Gems was a supporter of Team GBR international showjumper Holly Gillott, owning Elore and having an involvement with Holly’s top horse Dougie Douglas.

“She gave me a real leg up,” Holly told H&H.

“I wouldn’t have done all I have in the sport without her. She didn’t have much interest in showjumping but she must have seen something in me to give it a go, and she really helped me. She was a great support to me.”

Photographer Nico Morgan told H&H Gems was “one of the most generous and helpful people I have ever known”.

“She was loving her hunting and it is fitting that she should pass doing what she loved most,” he added.

Former H&H hunting editor Nicola Jane Swinney said: “I first met Gems some years ago at the PPORA lunch at Stratford.

“Her energy and boundless enthusiasm for all things horse and hunting were infectious and we became good friends. I shall miss her verve and zest for life greatly.”

It was the Fitzwilliam’s opening meet, and the hunt has “expressed sincere condolences” to her family.

“We are extremely sad to hear to the death of Gems. She was a huge supporter of hunting in Leicestershire and beyond,” said a spokesman for the Countryside Alliance.

“Hunting was a very big part of her life and she will be long missed by the Cottesmore country.”

Plaiting up for the first time since the end of last season, putting on your old hunt coat to find it has shrunk over the summer and lost a button, or rifling through your chest of drawers to track down your best breeches can all be some of the signs that the new season is about to start.

However once all the preparation is out of the way, everyone can get on and enjoy the first day of the season.

Opening meets have been taking place across the country during the past couple of weeks with people of all ages experiencing their first day out behind hounds.

We take a look at some of your pictures capturing the excitement that has been taking place up and down the country.

1. The Banwen Miners opening meet at The King Arthur in Reynoldston. Pictured among members of the field are Nia Godsmark MFH and field master Peter Bowdler

Picture credit: Simon Rees

2. Gina Woodhouse, amateur whipper-in to the South Downs Bloodhounds, jumps a fence with ease on her young horse Tikka

Picture credit: www.sharontphotography.co.uk

Continued below…

Watch this space: 10 hunting stars of the future *PICTURES*

• 24 October, 2015 - 17:55

Those early season nerves at the meet are all too familiar… As is the moment you look across to see More…

3. One-year-old Digby riding his 38-year-old pony, Bubbles at the opening meet of the Wilton

Picture credit: Hannah Betts

4. The opening meet of the Wheatland added at least one new member to their tumblers’ club — both horse and rider were unharmed and soon reunited

Picture credit: Katrina Shaw

5. A mounted field of more than 75 horses and riders — including these four ladies — enjoyed the North Cornwall’s opening meet at Hamatethy in St Breward

Picture credit: Claire Collings

6. A young follower and her horse give this fence plenty of “air” while following the North Cornwall

Picture credit: Claire Collings

7. Officials of the Ross Harriers at their opening meet

Picture credit: Amber Simms

8. A lady follower out with the East Essex successfully negotiates a ditch

Picture credit: Mark Rendall

9. Tom Lyle MFH, huntsman of the Dartmoor keeps hounds up together

Picture credit: Hamish Mitchell

The failure of the present government to pass the sensible amendments to the current hunting legislation is lamentable.

Once again, common sense has become a casualty of Westminster politics. Our position is pretty wretched, with repeal looking highly unlikely in the short term. Ten years have passed since the Hunting Act; it is difficult to see it being any more likely with the passage time.

However there is a glimmer of hope in the unlikely guise of the new (old) Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn. “Can it be?” I hear you cry, “that the anti-monarchist, anti-capitalist, anti-Nato and anti-defence of the realm Jezza is not only a fan of Hamas and the Russkies, but also a field sports supporter?”

Well… no. I think it’s highly unlikely. Can’t really picture him in plus fours, Purdey in hand, like Harold Macmillan or indeed, in a silk hat waiting with anticipation at the infamous covert Parsons Thorns, like Churchill.

However, the likelihood is that the Labour Party has just elected a chap to lead Her Majesty’s loyal opposition who will ensure they remain just that for some considerable time.

That leaves us with the Conservatives, from whom we receive the most support. It also leaves five, maybe 10, years to do something about the intolerable pressure under which many hunt servants have to work.

First, the sensible amendments proposed by the government need to be repackaged, so they can be seen to be just that. Somehow we allow the press to portray them as “a relaxing of the ban”, which they most certainly and regrettably are not.

They are, though, a sensible way of helping wildlife management at no expense to the tax payer. Wavering MPs need proper education and reassurance.

I am told that David Cameron is supportive of the countryside and understands our predicament. Given that he has signalled his intention to step down, it is worth noting that when it comes to hunting, it is highly unlikely that the next prime minister will give a flying fig.

Sometime soon is probably the last realistic opportunity to achieve a result. It is not the time to drop the bridle — now is the time to pick up the whip and use your full allowance.

Eager anticipation

Autumn hunting has, as usual, been a frenzied time. Most huntsmen, I imagine, need little persuasion to do the extra days required at this time of year; wholehearted devotion to their job is reason enough.

However, unlike times past, when the local MFH had little to do but run their hunt country efficiently, now, almost without exception, people taking on official roles in the hunt have jobs to do and bills to pay.

It would be easy to take for granted the extra effort required, but rest assured it is worth it.

Apart from the obvious benefits for hounds and important preparation for the imminent open season, it is essential to cover the whole of your country and fly the flag even in the least fashionable areas, and autumn is a good time to do it.

A recent television series Titchmarsh on Capability Brown featured Belvoir Estate and the efforts to complete plans made by Capability Brown for the fifth Duke.

Now, during the stewardship of the 11th Duke, the transformation is all but complete.

The Estate has undergone something of a renaissance during recent years, of the sort achieved only by single-minded determination. The season of “mists and mellow fruitfulness” sees the park at its best, which, combined with the anticipation of the season to come, makes autumn my favourite time of year.

Hardly a day goes by when I don’t appreciate my good fortune in occupying the position I do.

There is, naturally, a book by Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland to accompany the series. The launch of said tome took place in London recently and was by all accounts a grand affair.

There were gun dogs, tweed clad keepers — even a horse. And, representing the hunt, our second whipper-in — he doesn’t get out much and could barely conceal his excitement for the trip.

We sent two hounds to look after him and they kept him on a lead at all times. He was also chaperoned by the Ladies Violet, Alice and Eliza Manners who are, I am told, more used to the attentions of the national press and society pages than the whipper-in is. It has been cheering to see all three shun for a time the bright lights to appear in the hunting field this season.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 5 November 2015