On Boxing Day 2025, at a meet of the South Devon Hunt near Widecombe-in-the-Moor, there was a presentation of a cheque to The Farming Community Network (FCN), celebrating the success of a Dartmoor-wide fundraising effort rooted in community and seasonal goodwill.

The funds were raised at “Farmer’s Carols”, a well-attended service of nine lessons and carols held at St Pancras Church, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, on the evening of Thursday, 11 December. The church was filled with farming families, supporters and friends who gathered to enjoy carols, mince pies and mulled wine while raising money for a cause close to the hearts of rural communities. FCN, which provides vital support to farming families during times of difficulty, was chosen as the beneficiary.

The service was supported by five hunts whose countries include Dartmoor: the South Devon Hunt, Dartmoor Hunt, Mid Devon Hunt, Spooner’s and West Dartmoor Hunt, and the Stoke Hill and North Dartmoor Beagles. Their combined involvement reflected the strength of collaboration across Dartmoor’s rural organisations and highlighted a shared commitment to supporting those working in agriculture.

Polly Portwin, Director of the Countryside Alliance, said:

“This kind of selfless, community-driven fundraising is something we see time and again from hunts across the country, and it deserves to be celebrated. On Dartmoor, the coming together of farming families, supporters and local hunts to raise money for the Farming Community Network shows just how deeply rooted these organisations are in rural life. At a time when many farming families are under real pressure, it is heartening to see goodwill, tradition and practical support combine to make a genuine difference to people who need it most.”

Photographs from the Boxing Day cheque presentation show Joseph Emmett MFH, master and huntsman of the South Devon Hunt, on his horse Jonny, alongside Joanna Thuel, the hunt’s honorary treasurer and a long-standing Supporters’ Club stalwart. Also pictured is Zoe Clark from FCN, who accepted the cheque on behalf of the charity. Joanna Thuel was recently recognised as a 2024 Countryside Alliance Awards finalist for Southwest Village Shop and Post Office, underlining her ongoing contribution to rural life.

In addition to the donation to FCN, the South Devon Hunt has raised approximately £700 each for Devon Air Ambulance Trust and the Ashburton branch of Dartmoor Search and Rescue through other events this season, with cheque presentations planned for the new year.

The latest fundraising builds on a strong track record. During the 2023/24 season, the hunt raised £1,000 for FCN and £750 for Devon Air Ambulance Trust, while the 2024/25 season saw £700 raised for Andy’s Man Club. Together, these efforts demonstrate the continued commitment of Dartmoor’s hunting and farming communities to supporting vital rural charities.

Photo credit: Sharon Newman