Trail hunting community in Lancashire raises money for charity in memory of local heroes

The money was raised across two events, one of which was the hunt’s first ever charity hound race for Cancer Research held at the VLH Hunt Kennels in the Deer Park in Hornby. The charity was chosen after two farmers in the community lost their battles with cancer earlier this year.

Throughout the day there were six races, with six hounds competing in each, as well as a final championship race which included all of the winners from the day. All six races plus the championship were sponsored by local businesses.

The winner of the championship race was Vicki Sutton Tatham who received a luxurious hamper donated by the VLH Hunt Committee.

Eleanor Tomlinson, Vale of Lune hunt secretary, said: “The race day was such a great success, so much so I think it’s going to become an annual event. Everybody really enjoyed the day and we had a great turnout with spectators from across the local community, as well as many of our farmers coming along.

“As a committee, every year we need to decide which charity we will focus our efforts on. This year we sadly lost two farmers to cancer. The turnout at the race, as well as the money raised, was a testament to who they were and we were grateful to be able to come together and remember them in this way.”

The hunt also hosted its annual ‘Amble’ which is a much-loved local event. The Amble is a fundraising meet – a ride with hounds over farmland which offers plenty of optional jumping, suitable for all competent riders. Known to be very sociable, with food and beverage stops along the way, the hunt is always delighted to host the Amble and to raise a large sum for a good cause.

The North West Air Ambulance was the chosen charity for the event this year after a friend of the community, Martin Horn, tragically lost his life this summer in an accident.

The North West Air Ambulance attended the scene of Martin’s accident to help stabilise him enough to get to him to the hospital.

Eleanor Tomlinson said: “The air ambulance does an incredible job day in and day out, and when our dear friend Martin was injured, they attended the scene and were able to buy the family some extra time. Sadly, Martin passed away but not without being given the best possible chance by the team at the air ambulance who did everything they could for him. The air ambulance allowed Martin’s family and loved ones the time to say goodbye. They will forever be grateful for that.

“Like other hunts across the country, this donation exemplifies our ongoing commitment to the air ambulance and the invaluable service they provide to the rural community. It is a charity we have supported for many years, and this is just a small thank you for the work they do.”

The Vale of Lune Harriers is a member of the British Hound Sports Association (BHSA) and practices trail hunting. No animal is pursued during a trail hunt, instead the hounds follow a scent trail. All members of the BHSA follow a code pf practice and are fully compliant with the Hunting Act 2004.