Behind every successful hunt is a network of people who quietly make it all happen. They are the unsung heroes - volunteering their time, energy and expertise, not for glory, but for the love of trail hunting, the hounds and the community. From secretaries and chairmen to lorry drivers and kennel help, these are the hunt stalwarts: the backbone of the hunting world, whose dedication keeps tradition alive and strengthens the bonds that run through every meet. We all know somebody who fits the bill.

Ever since I was a little girl hunting alongside my grandfather, it was always the people who stayed with me. The familiar faces on the ground, quietly keeping the wheels turning. As a child, I didn't fully appreciate them; they existed in the background, steady and dependable. But growing up within the hunting community, you come to understand not only who these people are, but why they matter so deeply.

That understanding crystallised when I became a hunt secretary. I realised how often the contributions of these individuals go unnoticed. To those running a hunt, their importance is obvious - but to the wider community, perhaps less so. Volunteers are the quiet force behind so much of what works. They give their time, energy and care not because they must, but because they choose to. This freely given gift strengthens and sustains the hunting community.

Celebrating hunt heroes

At the start of the 2025/2026 season, the Countryside Alliance launched the Hunt Stalwarts series to recognise these people. The response was overwhelming. While we could not feature everyone, we shared a selection of individuals whose dedication embodies the spirit of hunting with beagles, foxhounds, basset hounds or any other type of hound. Across the country, the same theme emerged: these are people who take on roles that may not be glamorous but are essential.

Our first stalwart of the series was Angela Turner of the Oakley Hunt. Angela has been part of the hunt for 30 seasons, taking on almost every job. From supporters' club secretary for 12 years to chairman for the past few, plus point-to-point sponsorship and responsibility for the website, emails, banking and more. Nominated by Graham Tawell, who said: "She's an absolute brick - any job that no one else will do, Angela will do it."

Ivor Jones of the Grafton Hunt has recently been recognised for 50 years of service driving the hunt lorry. For Ivor, it has never been just about driving; it is about being part of a team. He speaks fondly of the hunt grooms, huntsmen, the hounds and the camaraderie of every meet. As Charles Smyth-Osborne, joint-master of the Grafton, explained: "It is only as a master that you realise his tremendous contribution to the smooth running of a hunting day, and with 50 years' experience under his belt, his advice and knowledge are invaluable."

Richard Sherwood of the Cattistock is another stalwart who is simply always there. Whether helping at the kennels on a Saturday, joining the flesh round, parking lorries at shows, or setting up (and taking down) rings, Richard is a constant, dependable presence. He has even given his own time, skills and materials to build a new puppy show ring, quietly ensuring everything is done properly. Known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of hunting history, he respects tradition and correct practice, sharing insight only when asked. Like so many stalwarts, he has been involved in hunting since his youth and continues, year after year, to give back to the community that shaped him.

Another of our hunt stalwarts, Sue Enfield, is being recognised for over 40 years of unwavering dedication to the hunting community, from her early involvement with the Vale of Aylesbury Hunt (now Kimblewick) and the South Pembrokeshire Hunt (now Cresselly Hunt) to her current role as Chair of the Ludlow Hunt Club. She also served as District Commissioner of the Vale of Aylesbury Hunt Pony Club, nurturing young riders and fostering a love of hunting.

Sue has been at the heart of countless fundraisers and events - dressage competitions, horse and pony shows, dog shows, ladies' days, car treasure hunts, lamb auctions, open gardens, and memorable hunt lunches. "Sue works tirelessly to coordinate every event," says Jo Verth, joint-master of the Ludlow Hunt. "Her attention to detail makes everything run like clockwork. Dedication like hers is in her blood."

Oriel Mayne of the RAC Beagles has served as secretary for 15 years and is adored by students, hunt staff and supporters alike. As chairman, Mark Hill, said: "If there was a description of a hunt stalwart, she would fit it perfectly ... she is always available to help with almost anything that needs doing."

Clare Thompson of the Hursley Hambledon juggles family life and several jobs yet gives countless hours to the hunt. She has kept it close to her heart for decades, having puppy-walked alongside her young son, who now knows every hound by name and proudly helps the new huntsman learn them. Georgina Bastian MFH noted: "She helps with vital hound sponsorship and raises significant funds through selling items at car boot sales, which pay for veterinary bills and hound care. To us, she is a true hunting stalwart."

For many stalwarts, it is the hounds themselves that lie at the heart of their dedication. Darren Prosser of the Cotswold Vale Farmers Hunt has devoted over 20 years to their care. From volunteering at the kennels to helping with groundwork (sometimes even funding it himself), Darren's commitment is extraordinary. You will often find him at the kennels once or twice a week or accompanying the huntsman to shows and events. For Darren, as for so many, trail hunting is not simply an activity; it runs in the blood.

What struck me most, as these nominations came in, was the consistency of character. Different hunts, different counties, different roles - yet the same quiet reliability. The person who arrives before everyone else to put the kettle on. The one who stays long after the last horse has left the field to clear up. The steady hand who knows where everything is kept, who to call in a crisis, how things have always been done - and why. These are the custodians of continuity.

Their contribution is not measured only in hours given, but in the atmosphere they help create. A warm welcome at the meet. A reassuring word to a nervous newcomer. A depth of knowledge passed gently from one generation to the next. They anchor hunts through change and challenge alike, offering stability in uncertain times.

It is easy to celebrate the spectacle of a hunting day - the turned-out horses or the cry of hounds. Harder, perhaps, to see the scaffolding that holds it all together. Yet without these stalwarts, there would be no meet to gather at, no hounds cared for so meticulously, no events organised, no community sustained.

They may never seek the spotlight, but they deserve it, nonetheless.

Protecting a way of life

With the future of trail hunting under threat, it is vital that the impact of any potential ban is fully understood. These individuals do not give their time and energy for recognition or reward. They do it because this way of life matters to them. It is woven into who they are. The social connectivity created by the trail hunting community is profound, and it is something the government must understand. This is not a loose collection of individuals - it is a strong, resilient community built on commitment, shared values and an enduring sense of belonging. Join the Future for Hunting campaign here to find out more and stay updated. 

Photo credit Raoul Dixon