Richard De Pelet

The generous bon viveur who ensures the whole field has a wonderful time

- Tessa Waugh

IN 41 years as chairman of the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale, Richard de Pelet has oiled the wheels of this successful Dorset pack with his generosity, enthusiasm and interest in people (he knows everyone).

Every year, in the week before the opening meet, he and his wife Isabel host the annual farmers’ drinks party and welcome up to 450 people into their home, Inwood. The opening meet is held at Inwood and the hounds are on the estate, which is 90% grassland in the centre of the hunt country, every three weeks throughout the season. The doors of the house, with its incredible collection of art, are open for endless hunting-related parties throughout the year.

Anthony Mayo, who has been a master of the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale since 2006, says Richard’s skills as a “people person” are second to none.