The names of those taking part in this year’s national horn-blowing competition, with entrants competing to win the Countryside Alliance Challenge Cup, have now been announced.

The competition, organised by the Hunt Staff Benefit Society, heads north this year, building on the success of last year as the event continues its journey around the country to celebrate the finest horn-blowing talent from packs nationwide. This year’s competition will take place on Sunday 11 October near Cornhill-on-Tweed.

The nine contestants, representing packs from across the north, who will take to the stage include: Will Deague from the Percy Hunt, Ali Graham MFH (Morpeth West Percy), Joseph Anderson MFH (Border), Angus Crozier MFH (Haydon), Charlie Jeffries (College Valley and North Northumberland), Poppy Tutcher MFH (Duke of Buccleuch’s), Matthew Wilkinson MFH (Jed Forest) and James Warnett from the Newcastle and District Beagles.

The contestants, who will perform two horn calls of their choice, have been coordinated by Patrick Martin, former huntsman of the Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase who was himself a winner of the hornblowing competition when it was previously held at the Horse & Hound Ball. Those blowing will be assessed by distinguished judges Robert McCarthy, huntsman of the Percy, alongside Jake Oppenheim, huntsman of the College Valley and North Northumberland. 

Polly Portwin, Director of the Campaign for Hunting at the Countryside Alliance, said:

“The standard of horn blowing is always extremely high and we are delighted to welcome such a strong line-up of contestants to compete for the Countryside Alliance Challenge Cup this year. The sound of the hunting horn is an important part of our hunting heritage, and this competition provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the skill and tradition involved while bringing the hunting community together.”

The winner and runner-up will each receive an engraved hunting horn, donated by the Countryside Alliance and the British Hound Sports Association.

The event, which starts with a champagne reception at midday, will include a two-course lunch along with an auction and raffle.

Tickets are available at £50 per person. Please contact secretary@hsbs.org.uk or ring 01285 653001 for further details before 1 October.