Most treasured possessions

A hunting horn often carries a deeper significance than merely a tool to hunt hounds, finds Polly Portwin

- Polly Portwin

AS far as inspirational gift ideas go, not only as retirement presents for masters or hunt staff, but for a significant birthday or perhaps even as a christening present from a godparent, a hunting horn can rarely be beaten. Whether it’s brand new or it has been used by a huntsman before, a hunting horn is something to be treasured.

“If my house was on fire it would be one of the first things I would grab on the way out,” exclaims Daniel Cherriman, huntsman of the Pytchley with Woodland, in a sentiment echoed by many. “While in monetary terms it is of little value, it holds so many memories and every dink and dent tells a different story.”

Hours of endless pleasure for the recipient of a horn can ensue, and it may even inspire a career in hunt service, although not everyone living under the same roof may share the same enthusiasm when the novice horn-blower starts practising at home.

Retired professional huntsman Patrick Martin, former winner of the prestigious Horse & Hound horn-blowing competition (see box, p66) recommends “sitting under the stairs or practising in the car”. Alternatively, if you have two hunting horns and want to practise at home, Patrick advises: “Put the two horns bell to bell [end to end] and you can blow at full pressure without upsetting the neighbours or the dog.”

“I used to ride out to a small quarry on the Western Beacon on Dartmoor,” explains Claire Bellamy, former huntsman of the Spooners and West Dartmoor who now hunts the Lauderdale hounds. “I only had the odd interruption from a Dartmoor pony or a walker who wondered what was happening!”