Photo credit: David Bunn
This season, the Countryside Alliance is launching Hunt Horse Heroes, a new social media series celebrating the horses that play such an important role in hunting.
From the trusty old favourite who has carried generations of hunt staff across the countryside to those still working hard in the hunting field today, we want to hear their stories.
We're asking hunts and their supporters from across the country to nominate horses that deserve a bit of recognition. They might still be working in hunt service or enjoying a well-earned retirement. Either way, we'd love to know what makes them special.
The only criteria are that horses must currently be in hunt service or have previously served and must still be alive.
Polly Portwin, Director of the Campaign for Hunting at the Countryside Alliance, said:
“Every horse that has served in hunt service has a story to tell, and we want to celebrate those that have played such an important role in the working life of a hunt. Some may have enjoyed successful careers in other equestrian disciplines before finding their way into hunt service, while others may once have been considered difficult or even unrideable, only to thrive in the routine of kennel life and the company of hounds.
“Whether they are still carrying hunt staff across the countryside or enjoying a well-earned retirement, these horses often have extraordinary characters and develop very special bonds with those who ride and care for them. We want to recognise their contribution and share some of the wonderful stories behind these unsung heroes of hunting.”
Throughout the season, we'll be featuring a selection of these horses on our social media channels, sharing their photographs, stories, and the characters behind them.
For the foot packs, we will also be launching a “Hound Hero” series in the future, so keep an eye out for further details.
Fill in the form below and tell us all about them. We look forward to hearing your stories!