ALTHOUGH the foot-and-mouth restrictions are forcing the continued suspension of all hunting activity, the Herefordshire hunts are still marking the traditional start of the season.
Taking the feelings within the farming community in each hunt country into account, activities as varied as hunt breakfasts, fun rides and sponsored walks have been organised. The North Herefordshire and the Clifton on Teme hunts opened with hunt breakfasts, and the South Herefordshire Hunt is holding its opening meet at the Lough Pool, near Ross-on-Wye on Saturday.
The aim is to draw supporters, farmers and enthusiasts together, reminding the countryside at large that the hunts are still there, and hopefully raising some funds.
Nicky Driver, Herefordshire spokeswoman for the Countryside Alliance, said: "These are obviously hard times for everyone. Some innovative ideas for fundraising have surfaced; one hunt follower raised £1800 through a sponsored slim, and as the hunting season gets underway, events will continue to raise money and spirits."
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