Newcomers' Week introduces many new people to hunting

Newcomers' Week sets the scene for the start of the season with many hunts reporting higher attendance numbers and bigger fields than ever before. The aim of hunting Newcomers' Week is to introduce as many new faces to the hunting field as possible and, due to the co-operation of many hunts', we have successfully managed to do just that. An excellent geographical spread of events and meets took place during the week of the 17^th – 24^th October with hunts reporting great turnouts, lots of happy Newcomers' and even a few new subscribers. This is very pleasing news and proof that hunting continues to be extremely popular.

We received this from Newcomer Chris Moore; 'Just a note to thank everyone for such a warm welcome on my first outing on Saturday with the Oakley. I will be taking out a 3 day newcomers subscription to start with so hope to see you all again at the Opening Meet.'

Karen Silcock, Secretary of the Fitzwilliam (Milton) Hunt reports; 'We had a great Newcomers meet on 17^th October – we met at 7.30am, and after a briefing from the Field Master, 27 mounted newcomers set off and were guided by our experienced followers through a great morning of autumn hunting, followed by bacon baps back at the boxes. The Fitzwilliam (Milton) Hunt is delighted to have had such great support and looks forward to seeing its new friends again.'

Catherine Heilbron, Secretary of the Surrey Union reports that; 'Over 70 hunt virgins met at Stockbridge Farm in Tilford, hosted by Hunt Chairman, and Field Master, Nigel Morland. The varied field enjoyed a glorious sunny afternoon and this year was a record as, despite some 30 jumping efforts over both cross country and hunt jumps, the Tumblers Club failed to gain even one new member! The broad smiles as they enjoyed tea and cake afterwards were proof that everyone had a wonderful time.'

Charlotte Breese, Secretary of the Curre and Llangibby told us; 'Our Newcomers Day was fantastic with 50 riders (double last year's total which we thought was good!) They all enjoyed themselves in spite of the rain. All thought we were a friendly, welcoming bunch and several are coming out with us again.'