Kennel-huntsman, Chris Kane, MBH, who gives us such wonderul days.
The Four Shires' Team
Senior master, Lady Hattersley, kennel-huntsman, Chris Kane, MBH and first whipper-in, Deb Kane.
Drawing of a Bloodhound by supporter, Aminta Dawson when she was 9 years old.
At the Millennium the Lady Hattersley persuaded the late Dowager Duchess of Devonshire and Sir Andrew Buchanan to help her form The Four Shires. In the 1920s the Mitford girls were regularly hunted – their father, Lord Redesdale, liked nothing better than to hunt the children of the family round the estate with his pack of Bloodhounds. The youngest child, the late Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, was regarded as too small to be a quarry. But like her father, our Founding President, always had a particular soft spot for these charming hounds.
Our President, the Duchess of Devonshire, DL and the Duke generously host our meets at Chatsworth. The Duchess is keen that young enthusiasts are able to sample a day’s hunting with these lovely, loose-skinned, lolloping hounds.
While this ancient hound traces its ancestry back to the Greeks and Romans, the modern breed has an ecclesiastical lineage. St Hubert, a monk who lived in the Ardennes region of France in the 8th century, refined the breed, which the Normans brought with them to Britain. The name Bloodhound refers to the fine bloodlines, rather than a taste for blood. As a scent hound, it has no equal. The long droopy ears help to couple the scent to the nostrils, giving a Bloodhound a scenting ability 800 times that of man. The remarkable tracking ability of this noble breed is legendary, and there is no better opportunity of seeing it in action than to follow a pack of Bloodhounds out hunting.
So what about the quarry? The sport of hunting with Bloodhounds is known as hunting the clean boot. Unlike a draghunt which uses an artificial pre-laid scent, Bloodhounds have to work the scent (which is affected by the weather) of a human quarry – a fell runner or a marathon runner. These hounds are very affectionate and on finding their quarry at the end of the meet, they often lick the runner.
Because Bloodhounds are very hardworking and diligent, and they “speak” when they find the scent of their quarry, it is also an excellent spectator sport and attracts a large foot and car following at the meets. The Boxing Day meet is held in the centre of Ashbourne and attracts several thousand well-wishers to see the pack depart. Spectators can see where the runner has gone and then enjoy seeing hounds racing along the same path. In windy conditions, hounds can be seen running slightly in parallel. Because the routes are pre-planned, The Four Shires are able to provide directions/maps indicating the best viewing points. Keen photographers often follow and we display their work on this site and in on Facebook.
Hunting the clean boot is a farmer-friendly sport. As the runner memorises the route, hounds pass quickly through farms in pursuit and do not double back. More important, as the quarry is human, the exact route can be agreed in advance with the farmers and landlords over whose land it crosses. Thus fields which have new seed or breeding stock can be avoided. As the route is pre-planned and hounds follow the quarry’s scent, 12-20 miles can be covered in a couple of hours. The day starts and ends at the same place. To encourage novices and the less confident, The Four Shires has a second field master leading those riders who want to take things more gently and/or avoid jumping.
The Four Shires tries to appeal to a large section of the community. Social events attract non-riders and members of Young Farmers and farmers and landowners over whose land it crosses.
The way the pack works together is fascinating. When the pack arrives at the meet, the hounds are un-boxed and introduced to the quarry. At the outset, master kennel-huntsman, Chris Kane, will encourage hounds and say things like "here he is" or "here she is", just so that the hounds know they have to register the scent. The runner is given a 10-20-minute head start. After the first hunt, the quarry is driven by road to the next starting point,; so they do not seek the quarry on the roads. On arrival, hounds cast themselves on again. Bloodhounds are wonderfully committed. If they loose the scent for a few strides, they quickly correct themselves. Whenever the scent ends the hounds will "check"; then it's the huntsman’s job to "lift" hounds and move them on to the field from where the runner has begun the next stage of the hunt. The hounds will draw that field and work out the next line. By this time, the quarry is usually hard pressed and has to be very quick to avoid being caught.
In a day's hunting this is repeated a number of times. At the end of the day, during which time hounds can have covered up to 25 miles, the pack is allowed to "catch" the quarry, who has to cope with the inevitable delight and elation of these affectionate hounds.
The Four Shires’ season is from mid-August to early April, hunting on Sundays and with some bye days. Autumn hunting starts with hound exercise days – a cross country ride with hounds at foot. Hound exercises are an excellent way to get horses and riders hunting fit and green horses accustomed to hounds. They are also perfect for novices who want to get a taste of the sport. There are optional jumps for those who want to have a pop. There is no runner on hound exercise days, but if hounds pick up a scent, they may well start to “speak” as these hounds are very chatty.
Bloodhound hunting – as opposed to hound exercises – is a day for riders with horses capable of crossing the country. It is a great day for people and horses, who love their jumping. Most of the obstacles are natural, so a horse that pricks his ears at the sight of hedges and stonewalls is just the job. An alternative route round with a second fieldmaster is always provided for those riders wanting a less challenging day. But always check with the Hunt Secretary that the meet is suitable for horse and rider.
Riders and car followers enjoy watching these dedicated hounds work – the field goes at hounds’ pace, which is far from slow. But it is not a team chase or a drag hunt – rather a chance to observe houndwork in magnificent country.
The Four Shires hunt by the generous invitation of farmers and landowners who have taken to enjoying the spectacle these hounds provide. The rich deep music, which Bloodhounds make when hunting, is glorious and unforgettable.
The Hunt is a member of the Masters of Draghounds and Bloodhounds. Chris Kane, MBH is vice-chairman of the MDBA.
Deb Kane, our first whipper-in, took our "I" litter puppies to meet some Richmond Care Home residents – and they were a real hit.
There is a lovely article about the Four Shires in Reflections magazine this month. You can see it by following this link. The article starts on page 46.
OUR FACEBOOK PAGE IS NOW
Four shires bloodhounds ltd
Please join the Four shires bloodhounds ltd GROUP
This will enable everyone will be able to share their photos and videos.
2015 Calendars Available Now
All profits go to support our lovely hounds.
Available at all our meets and from Tracy Muir Photography
The Vintage Tack Room offer a 5% discount for followers of the Four Shires Bloodhounds, and in addition 5% of your spend is donated to hunt funds.
Click here to see their latest offers.
If you have any queries prior to a meet day with regard to type of meet, jumps etc Please e-mail our Hunt Secretary, Fiona Dawson. If yoy have any urgent concerns, please call Chris Kane, MBH, on 07854 412370 who will be happy to talk to you.
Masters:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Maggie Pearlstine MBH, Tel: 07774 729 823
Chris Kane, MBH, Tel: 0785 441 2370
Hunt Secretary & Web Master:
Fiona Dawson
Mob: 07711 396963
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
All meets commence at 12.00pm unless otherwise advised. We hunt by the kind invitation of farmers and landowners who have been wonderfully generous and supportive. We are deeply grateful to be allowed to cross their land.
Please park considerately. When un-boxing please park sensibly, you should make sure that you are not blocking a lane or driveway. Take care not to park on a manicured verge or do anything that may cause congestion or inconvenience to other road users.
Arrive at the meet a little before the time that is stated on the meet card. On arrival at the meet as a matter of courtesy say "good morning" to the Huntsman and Whippers-in and the Masters. Please have your cap ready for collection, which will probably be taken by Helen Best, Hon Secretary, (this is your contribution towards the Hunt's cost).
If you recognise them thank the farmer or landowner who is hosting the meet and thank the person who gives the 'stirrup cup'’. The Four Shires prides itself on being a welcoming hunt. So the more people you talk to at the meet, the friendlier the atmosphere that is created. In particular, remember to greet people on foot and make those who are out for the first time feel welcome.
At the start of the day, please say “Good morning” to the hunt officials, even if it is past midday.
Just before the start of the day’s hunting a Master will address the crowd. Do remember to keep your horse facing the hounds whilst she or he speaks. The Master will also make any announcements relevant to the day, please listen to these and adhere to them.
The Field Master for the day will be introduced and he or she should always be addressed as Field Master. It is the Field Master's job to guide riders (The Field) across country. We also have a Second Field Master for those who do not want to jump. Members of the field may move from one field to another. Unless you are an experienced hunter, start by following in the second field, so that you and your horse get the chance to settle. Stay behind your field master, but do not crowd him/her – and do not obstruct the jumping line.
The Field Master knows the agreed route and where we must avoid. It is essential that everyone follows the Field Master. Care should be taken not to 'over-ride' (go past) the Field Master at any time, unless specifically requested to do so.
Remember to thank the hosts of the meet, as you depart. As part of the mounted field, you are an ambassador for our sport and country sports as a whole.
As hounds leave the meet, please remember to make sure that your horse's head is facing towards them.
If during the hunting day you need help or advice, seek out a member of the mounted field, who have been invited to wear the Lincoln green 'Hunt Collar' on their coat. If the Field Master gives any commands it is the responsibility of each member of the mounted field to pass these commands back through the field. For example “ware (said 'wear') hole "ware wire", "ware hole on the left". 'Ware' is a shortened form of 'beware' and is sometimes pronounced 'war'.
If a hunt official (Field Master, Huntsman, Whipper-in or Master) passes through the mounted field, you should always turn your horse to face towards them. This minimises the chance of your horse kicking a passing horse. You must always give way to a hunt official and give a clear instruction to others to move as well for example, "Whip please on your right".
When hounds are passing the mounted field you should always turn your horse to face the hounds and give way to them. If hounds are running you must move aside, stop, and allow them through, tell those who have not seen the hound/s that they are there.
Gates should always be left as they were found. If a gate is open when you get to it, leave it open unless you have received the message "gate please". "Gate please" means the last person in sight who can hear is to shut the gate. If you are unsure if you are the last, you must shut the gate, and fasten it. (It is useful to carry some bailing twine and a penknife.)
It shows courtesy to the Field Master if a member of the mounted field offers to open the gate, as this enables the Field Master to lead the mounted field through. Two people should wait together to close a gate. Please thank people on foot who are kind enough to hold a gate whilst you ride through, especially farmers or farm workers who may be holding a gate or helping in some other way.
"Headlands please" means you must keep your horse off crops and keep close into the edge of the field. Remember that we only have access to land by invitation of farmers and landowners. Any damage, be it to crops or fencing, must be reported to the Field Master at the time it happens. This is so that he can arrange repairs either immediately or at the end of the hunting day. Any accidents or livestock escaping must also be advised to the Field Master.
The mounted field should always ride keeping to the left-hand side of the road leaving sufficient room for the horse in front. Avoid riding on the horse in front’s heels. If barged from behind, any horse may kick. Always leave enough room to allow motorists to pass easily. If a car comes up behind you, pass the message 'car please' forward to the Field Master. When a car does pass or when oncoming traffic slows down you should always thank them. The Four Shires is a friendly and courteous hunt and the field should exhibit these traits. When riding along the road care should also be taken not to ride across manicured verges.
Individual members of the field are responsible for warning other members of the mounted field that they have a novice horse or that their horse is known to kick. This is indicated by ribbon tied around the top of your horses tail a green ribbon for a novice, or a red ribbon for a horse that is known to kick. It is not the responsibility of others to avoid these horses, but the responsibility of the riders to make sure that their mounts do not harm others. Horses with red or green ribbons must stay at the back of the mounted field.
When jumping please wait your turn and do not barge. If your horse refuses, wait for those who wish to jump and then have one more attempt, if the horse refuses a second time, then find a way round, so you do not churn up the turf.
If you or your horse are not confident jumping you should jump at the back of the field and see if ask someone to give you a lead. You should try to 'hold a line' on approaching a jump and not veer to the left or right, thereby interfering with the horse and rider behind you. If a jump is damaged remember to tell the Field Master as soon as you can so that its repair can be organised. If you knock any stones off a wall, it is your responsibility to stop and replace them
If a rider has fallen before or after a jump, the rest of the mounted field should wait until the fallen rider is out of harms way. A loose horses will need to be retrieved. Only two members of the field should remain with the fallen rider. The rest of the field should carry on behind the Field Master. Please carry your membership card in your coat pocket, so emergency telephone numbers are to hand.
Members of the mounted field should always indicate they are going home by saying "Goodnight" – regardless of the time of day – and "Thank you" to the Field Master as this will help hunt officials keep track of the mounted field. At the end of the meet, always thank the Huntsman, Whipper-in, quarry and Masters.
Tea will be available after each meet, either by the Hunt Lorry or at a local pub if we meet there (please note there will be an additional charge for pub teas). This is a great opportunity to catch up with other riders and discuss the day.
The Four Shires Bloodhounds is the official, registered pack for Derbyshire and its borders. The registered country lies in in and around the Peak Park and includes plenty of old turf intersected by stout hedges and natural fences. To the north is stone wall country.
View Four Shires Bloodhounds Meets and Events in a larger map
SAVE LOTS FOR YOURSELF, RAISE MONEY FOR YOUR HUNT AT THE SAME TIME
In March, our End of Season Sale features 5 new bargains every day. As a member of our Hunt Savings Scheme, you get an additional 5% off too! And your hunt will receive a donation of 5% of your spend.
If there's something you can see on our website that you want, but it isn't in our sale, don't worry - if it's an item scheduled for the sale, we will only charge you the proposed sale amount. If you want to check out a particular future price of an item, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01798 861555 or 07568 512000
You're receiving this email because you are part of our Hunt Savings Scheme, but if you're not sure of your discount code, or how it works, please check with your hunt secretary, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
YEAR-ROUND BARGAINS FOR HUNT SAVINGS SCHEME MEMBERS
Hunt Savings Scheme members get 5% off everything, all year round, and your hunt benefits with a 5% donation of your spend.
We also have, for March,20% EXTRA FOR HUNT SCHEME MEMBERS on ANYTHING from new items on the following brands:
Equetech - tweed jackets, hunt coats, breeches and shirts
Caldene - jackets, hunt coats, sidesaddle habits, boots, shirts, breeches
Regent Boots
Hamilton Hunt Caps
To take advantage of this offer, please contactThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to arrange your extra discount
AND FINALLY, TIME TO SPRING CLEAN YOUR HORSE'S WARDROBE
If winter has done for your rug, VTR can now supply rugs at 30% off the RRP, all year round. Please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for a price list
At the Four Shires we like to encourage all competent riders to enjoy hunting the clean boot. We pride ourselves in being a professional organisation and most of the few rules we have are for safety purposes. But we also we want to show good sport and present a pleasing picture when we meet – so always be courteous and smile – as in many cases this will be the public's first impression of us.
Your responsibility:
All riders, horses and followers participate at their own risk and no responsibility is taken by any member of the Hunt or any farmer or landowner for any accident, however it may be caused. The owner of a horse is liable for its actions and all riders must carry their own liability cover for themselves and their horse. Public liability insurance is provided within GOLD membership of the British Horse Society www.bhs.org.uk and also under membership of the Countryside Alliance www.countryside-alliance.org.
Farmers:
We are only able to hunt due to the generosity of sporting local farmers. If you see any farmers, while out hunting, do make a point of thanking them.
Front and Second Field:
We always have a Second field master for those wanting a less challenging day. Unless you are an experienced hunter, start by following in the Second Field, so that you and your horse get the chance to settle. Stay behind your field master, but do not crowd him/her – and do not obstruct the jumping line.
Those in the mounted field want to see hounds work; so do not hesitate before a jump. The jumping field should move smoothly along behind the field master. Riders can move from one field to another. If you are unsure about a jump, join the Second Field for that part of the line but do not obstruct those who are jumping.
Dress:
Please be smartly turned out. For hunting that means a black coat (ladies may wear blue), black velvet covered hat, beige or tan breeches, long boots and a white or ivory stock. Children may wear hacking jackets, ties and jodhpurs.
For hound exercises members of the mounted field wear a tweed coat and tie.
Your Horse:
For hunting your horse should be smartly turned out, plaited or hogged for meets. Check with the Bookings Secretary if it is a stone wall day, as knee boots are advisable.
If it is the first time out for your horse as well, you should tie a green ribbon to its tail to let everyone else know, and allow them to give you room.
If you have ever seen your horse kick, you must wear a red ribbon which warns everyone else to keep clear and try to stay at the back.
Disclaimer:
All riders, horses and followers participate at their own risk and no responsibility is taken by any member of the hunt or any farmer or landowner for any accident, however it may be caused. The owner of a horse is liable for its actions and all riders must carry their own liability cover for themselves and their horse. All riders and followers must sign a Four Shires’ disclaimer before participating in any Hunt events.
Field Master:
Follow instructions from your field master and pass the message back.
Hunt Staff:
Give priority to hounds and hunt staff.
Damage:
Any stones which come off walls must be replaced. Report any broken fences etc immediately to the field master. Any broken fences or gates will be charged for at erected prices.
Everyone must take all rubbish and horse muck home with them.
Questions:
If you have any questions on the day, you can ask either one of the Masters, or one of the people with green collars and buttons, who are experienced members of the Hunt and will be very happy to help.
A warm, friendly welcome! The Four Shires welcomes new members and wants everyone in the field to enjoy the day. There are plenty of members who will be only too happy to help you out hunting. Aside from your field master, look out for those with a green collar and hunt buttons.
The Day
All meets commence at 12.00pm unless otherwise advised.
Only the quarry (the runner), the Huntsman and the Field Masters (Front and Second = Non/selective-Jumping) know what route they have agreed with the farmers over whose land we are hunting. We hunt by the kind invitation of farmers and landowners who have been wonderfully generous and supportive. We are deeply grateful to be allowed to cross their land.
Hunting
Bloodhounds hunt the clean boot, that is hunting a human quarry (a runner) with hounds. Hunting meets take approx 3 hours to complete. Attire: Black coats for adults (Ladies may wear blue), white or cream stock; horses plaited or hogged please. Children may wear tweeds and a shirt & tie at the Opening Meet and thereafter. If they wear a black coat, a white or cream stock should be worn. The reason for a stock once hunting proper starts is the extra support it provides.
Meets include a stirrup cup, and port stop.
The Mounted Fields
The jumping field should move smoothly along behind the field master. If your horse refuses, go to the back of the jumping field and try again; however, if your horse refuses a second time, you must go round. If you are unsure about a jump, join the Second field for that part of the line. Riders can move from one field to another so long as they do not obstruct those who are jumping or the Second field master and his field. If you are in the second field, then you must wait for the jumping field to have completed a jump before proceeding.
If you have any questions on the day, ask one of the Masters. If you need help look for those people wearing a green collar and hunt buttons. They are experienced members of the hunt and will be very happy to help.
Whilst we encourage and welcome all ages to come and give bloodhounding a try and do have fieldmasters with each field, please note the following:
Any rider under the age of 10 must be a competent rider and accompanied by a responsible adult.
Any rider under 16 must be a competent rider and able to cope without another responsible adult present with them.
This is for the safety and enjoyment of all participating.
If you do have a child that would like to hunt and you are unable to attend with them or unable to identify a responsible adult to send with them, then please do contact us in advance as we may have a member that is able to assist them for the day. This must be agreed in advance and is subject to member availability and agreement.
New, inexperienced and kicking horses must be marked with ribbons accordingly: GREEN ribbons for young or novice horses; RED ribbons for any horse ever known to have kicked – these must be kept clear of other horses and foot followers.
At the meet, please move out of the way of hounds and turn your horse's head to face them. Out hunting do not stop if a hound has been left behind. Take care not to step on hounds but leave it to the Whips to recover any hounds which are separated.
MEETS SCHEDULE
We meet from September until April. Out of season we hold hunt rides and parade hounds. A warm welcome is extended to all. Hound exercises commence the first week in September. The meet schedule will be published here as venues are confirmed.
UPCOMING EVENTS THIS SUMMER
Sunday 29th June 2008 - Hounds Parades at Tissington Shire Horse Show
This year's show will be held at Mrs Kent's Ground near Darley Moor Airfield. Please show your support and come along. Members help is required at this, so if you can help, please contact the Hunt Secretary and volunteer. If you can help on any of the days then please volunteer and email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Saturday 26th July 2008, Farmers' Thank You Lunch
This is to thank the Farmers for their support of the hunt and for allowing us to hunt over their land. Only a few members will be required to help and the Masters will let those whose attendance is needed know in good time.
Friday 8th August 2008, Summer Ball at Chatsworth
Chatsworth is going to be home to the first-ever Four Shires Bloodhound’s Summer Hunt Ball. Catering is being arranged by Chatsworth’s in-house team, who will prepare a delicious meal made from local ingredients. A disco has also been arranged, designed to cater for a wide-range of musical tastes.
Demand for the event is expected to be high, tickets are being issued to members of the Four Shires only in the first instance. Full details of the Four Shires Bloodhounds Summer Hunt Ball are now available. Click here to see event details and click here to book tickets. Tickets are going very quickly and we would advise you to book ASAP. Contact Jane Shepherd for further information on 01538 308685 – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Wednesday 6th August 2008 - Hounds Parades at Bakewell Show
Wednesday 13th August 2008 - Hounds Parades at Ashover Show
Saturday 16th August - Hounds Parades at Ashbourne Show
Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st August - Hounds Parades at Chatsworth Country Fair
Sunday 7th September - FIRST HOUND EXERCISE
Sunday 21st September - Hounds Parades at Hartington Wakes Show
Hound Exercise leaving from the Hartington Wakes Show
MEET INFORMATION
All meets commence at 12.00pm unless otherwise advised.
We hunt by the kind invitation of farmers and landowners who have been wonderfully generous and supportive. We are deeply grateful to be allowed to cross their land.
We always have a Second field master for those wanting a gentler day or not wishing to jump. Unless you are an experienced hunter, start by following in the second field, so that you and your horse get the chance to settle. Stay behind your field master, but do not crowd him/her – and do not obstruct the jumping line.
Please look at the 'What to Expect, 'Basic Guidelines' and 'Hunting Terms' pages. Members of the mounted field must listen to the Master's briefing and obey and pass back instructions from the field master.
DAILY CAP
Hound Exercises: Adults Members £20, Non-members £25, U-18s £10, Non-members £15.
Hunting: Adults £45, under-18s £35, 2nd child with an adult family member £20. All prices incl. VAT, and stirrup cup and port stop.
MEMBERSHIP
To attend all riders must be members of the Hunt and sign the disclaimer.Four Shires
Membership Cost: Individual £30, Family £50. Membership is free for all farmers and landowners over whose land we hunt and all members of Young Farmers. If you have any questions, please contact, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Visitors may join the mounted field on two occasions, after which they must become members.
HUNTING ATIRE
A dark covered hat should be worn with a black coat; ladies may wear a navy blue coat, a white or cream shirt with a correctly tied white or cream stock and a pin to hold it in place. Dark gloves, buff or beige jodhpurs with black boots or half chaps. A crop or whip should be carried and now hip flasks are allowed to be carried. For your safety it is requested that jewellery is not worn and body protectors are optional. Children may wear tweeds and a shirt & tie at the Opening Meet and thereafter. If they wear a black coat, a white or cream stock should be worn. The reason for a stock once hunting proper starts is the extra support it provides.
From the Opening Meet, horses must be fully plaited or hogged.
To book or for further information on the meets, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
These guidelines are for everyone in the mounted field to follow. We hope that this list is helpful for those who joining us out for the first time. The main aim is for everyone to spend a fantastic day out and to feel part of a friendly hunt group 'hunting the clean boot'. While out in the field you may here several different terms used by the field masters, hunt staff and members of the mounted field. When heard, they should be passed back clearly, through the field as they are either warnings that must be adhered to or instructions:
Hound please - an individual hound trying to re join the pack; allow it to pass on your left.
Face hounds please - Turn the horse's nose towards hounds to prevent hounds getting kicked.
Whip please - A Whipper-in needs to get through, back to the Huntsman. Please facilitate an open route for the Whipper-in to get through.
Gate please - This means that the last person through must shut the gate. Again you must pass the message back through the field and if you are at the back, either shut the gate, or assist the person doing so. Avoid galloping off and leaving the person shutting the gate, especially if they have dismounted, as they may end up stranded with an excited horse. The Four Shires often have a designated gate shutter and/or a Quad Master, but if requested, riders should take their turn and shut gates. All riders should take it upon themselves to remain with the gate shutter at least once during the day, if the Quad Master is detained or absent.