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About Us |
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The Farmers Bloodhounds, hunt the Clean Boot. Michael Lucas established the Farmers Bloodhounds in 1989, and was adamant that the pack should exist to complement foxhunting across the south and West Midlands, rather than replace it. Sadly, Michael had to retire from the saddle due to a recurring injury, but that spirit lives on with today’s mastership, Susan Busby-Senior Master; together with retired Point to Point rider Andy Tutton, Grafton farmer Brian Temple, Surgeon Gregor Kerr who hails from the Pytchley country, and Warwickshire farmer Mike Spencer. The kenneling and caring of the hounds, are the responsibility of our Huntsman Graham Tutton, who has hunted the pack with flare and distinction since 1997. Graham was introduced to hunting in The Grafton country from the age of seven and was delighted to be offered the job of kennel Huntsman with Michael Lucas with The Farmers Bloodhounds on leaving school at 16. Graham is quick to acknowledge the help and support he received from the late Peter Boddy of the Readyfield Bloodhounds. Most of the original pack was drafted in from the Readyfield and Wootton Hall Packs, and Peter was always happy to help and advise. However Graham has since embarked on a breeding plan to help adapt the hounds for the hillier country of the Cotswold’s and also the Warwickshire and Heythrop Vales. He went on to gain experience in Hunt service, whipping in to Neil Simpson at the Avon Vale, Roland Sheppard at the Cotswold’s and Austin James at the Albrighton Woodland. “We hunt an area from Towcester to Andoversford, and for some of our country we need a leaner, faster hound.” He explains, “They are wonderful to hunt – very loyal and determined to follow the scent of the quarry.” He was delighted when invited to carry the horn back with The Farmers Bloodhounds nine seasons ago. In 2001 financial difficulties caused by the suspension of hunting due to foot and mouth disease, the ownership and financial support was transferred to the Tutton family, the hounds are kenneled on their property to the present day. On 1st May 2005 the policy changed and the hunt is being administered by the Masters and committee who take responsibility for all decision within the Hunt. The Farmers Bloodhounds are very fortunate to have the support of former Hunt Chairman and Master Sir John Aird from the Heythrop country. Sir John has always maintained a wonderful liaison with the Countryside Alliance. The Farmers Bloodhounds are firmly committed to increasing our membership and we welcome both adults and children to our Hound Exercise meets, that start in mid August. These take place every Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. Sunday Hunting makes it possible for us to ensure we don’t clash with the Fox Hunting, who we very much support and want to see flourish the length and breath of the country. The pace is quicker and there is more jumping but there is provision for those who may have difficulty, by ensuring that there are second field Masters to make sure everyone can enjoy the day and take a slightly easier way cross country. Anyone coming out hunting with The Farmers’ Bloodhounds is always made extremely welcome and we give country people an opportunity to ride with hounds over some of the best hunting country in England. It is always made very clear by the Masters that supporting the Bloodhounds is just another country sport along with Foxhunting, Shooting, Point-to-Point, Fishing, Team-Chasing and it is important that all of us who enjoy the country way of life stick together in these times of political correctness. Keeping strong links with Foxhound packs is a recurring theme. A great majority of people from all walks of life and ages have immense pleasure Foxhunting and Blood hunting, watching hounds work, enjoying convivial company and an excellent social life. Owners of land crossed during a day’s hunting are invited to hunt with us as our guests and of course are invited to tea at the end of each day’s sport, to join in the camaraderie. This also gives the mounted followers the opportunity to meet and mix with their hosts. Bloodhound facts and figures
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