Newcomers’ Week generates fresh interest in hunting

The Countryside Alliance’s annual Newcomers’ Week was met with nationwide support when it returned to the hunting calendar from 19-26 October, 2024. Supported by the British Hound Sports Association, this initiative saw hunts across the country welcoming newcomers and providing them with a firsthand experience of following hounds, whether on horseback or on foot.

In addition to the many hunts that regularly hold a newcomers’ event, a number of different packs also held specific newcomers’ events for the first time this year. From Dartmoor in the south west, the Surrey Union in the south east right up to Berwickshire in Scotland, and from the Flint & Denbigh in Wales across to the Derwent in Yorkshire, new faces were welcomed onto the hunting field. The initiative has even been continued in the Republic of Ireland with the Tipperary Hunt organising their first newcomers’ event this season.

As newcomers’ week fell in half term in many areas, it was an opportunity for hunts to combine their newcomers’ meet with a children’s priority meet. The aim being to welcome those eager to follow hounds for the first time, as well as those returning to hunting after a break, providing an introduction and offering those attending the chance to get a greater understanding of how trail hunting and lawful hunting activities are conducted throughout the season.

Polly Portwin, Director of the Alliance’s Campaign for Hunting, expressed appreciation for the positive response from hunts nationwide:

“It is delightful to see the ongoing enthusiasm for these events and we are thrilled that so many hunts took part in this initiative. While hunts welcome new supporters year-round, the season’s start is an ideal time to introduce new faces, and many newcomers go on to become regular subscribers.”

“For those who missed their local newcomers’ event, you’re still warmly invited to join your local pack. We recommend contacting your local hunt secretary to find suitable meets and checking our website for the Countryside Alliance’s Boxing Day meet listings and interactive map, which will be updated in December.”

Some hunts also welcomed groups to an organised tour of their kennels and hunt stables to show how the hounds and hunt horses are kept, with a focus on the high standards of animal welfare maintained at all times.

Ahead of Newcomers’ Week, the Countryside Alliance offered advice for preparing for the meet, including who to contact, what to wear, and how to ensure both riders and horses were prepared for the day. Newcomers were also advised to avoid engaging with hunt saboteurs or monitors.

Image: Nicola Housley, Quorn Hunt