Hunting opens its doors to newcomers this October

Ever wanted to go hunting but didn’t know how? Now is your chance.

“Newcomers Week” is back this year for the first time since the introduction of the Hunting Act 2004.

The week — from 10-17 October — is designed to offer anyone who has never been hunting the chance to have a go for free, in a welcoming environment.

A spokesman for the Countryside Alliance, which is organising the week in conjunction with the Masters of Foxhounds Association (MFHA) said:

“The last newcomers week was in 2004, and packs across the country welcomed over 5,000 fresh faces.

“Though we don’t know exact figures, many of those 5,000 are still hunting.”

During the week, hunts will give people who ride, as well as those who don’t, the change to go exempt hunting and find out about the role of hunting in the British countryside.

For a list of hunts participating in Newcomers Week, visit www.countryside-alliance.org.uk

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