John Holliday is new huntsman for the Belvoir

The Belvoir has appointed a new huntsman, subject to committee approval.

John Holliday, who has hunted the Ledbury for 14 seasons, will take over on 1 May from Capt Rupert Inglesant, who has been sole master and huntsman since 2006.

John, 42, spent five years as whipper-in at the Belvoir from 1988-93 before joining the Quorn as first whipper-in.

“When I first set foot in the Belvoir kennels all those years ago I thought I’d like to hunt these hounds one day and, although I’m very sad to be leaving the Ledbury after 14 happy seasons, this is one of those jobs that comes up once in a generation,” said John.

“I’m also looking forward to working with George Grant, who is staying on as kennelman and countryman, which he was doing very well when I was there before.”

John’s partner, Sophie Oliver, will oversee the Belvoir hunt horses.

Belvoir hunt chairman John Martin said: “We’re very sorry to lose Rupert, but very pleased to have John. I rate him most highly.”

Capt Inglesant said: “I believe I have done all I can for hunting in this capacity, having been master and huntsman at three different packs over 17 years, and it is time to move on.”

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (4 February, ’10)

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