Renovation of the grave of renowned sporting artist 'Snaffles' now complete

The grave of the renowned sporting artist "Snaffles" has recently been renovated following generous donations from members and supporters of the Countryside Alliance along with readers of Hounds magazine.

On Tuesday, 25th May, a gathering took place in the church graveyard at Fonthill Gifford, near Salisbury, of those involved in the fundraising effort. This follows a collection to gather sufficient funds to renovate the grave after Countryside Alliance member Michael O'Reilly discovered its condition.

Polly Portwin, director of the Campaign for Hunting said: "We are so grateful to all those who contributed to the fundraising effort which was launched last year. Supporters of hunting, racing and the world of equestrianism were only too pleased to show their appreciation by donating to the cause.

"This has been a wonderful project to be associated with and we are delighted to have helped to protect the memory of one of our most iconic sporting artists," Mrs Portwin continued.

Mr O'Reilly approached the church authorities and local stonemason last year for an indication of the likely costs involved. He was understandably thrilled to reveal the renovated grave to Michael Sagar from Hounds magazine, photographer Ian Ware and David Roe, chairman of the London-based fine art dealers, Rosenstiels, who kindly helped to kick-start the project with a generous donation.

Charles "Snaffles" Johnson Payne was best known for his watercolour paintings and drawings of the horse in action, whether it be racing, hunting or other equestrian scenes. He was keen on hunting from an early age and his understanding and appreciation for fieldsports, coupled with his well-known humorous side meant that his work oozed authentic quality.

After the costs of the renovation project were reached, the remaining funds were split between the Countryside Alliance and the British Sporting Art Trust.

Pictured (left to right): Michael Sagar, Mike O'Reilly, Polly Portwin, David Roe and Steve Barrow