A NEW book documenting the long and illustrious history of the Hampshire hunt has been released.

The Hampshire Hunt 1749-2022 by Adrian Dangar is made up of 18 chapters telling stories and presenting fascinating anecdotes of the hunts.

Adrian was given access to an extensive array of records by the Hampshire Record Office.

He said: “It was an extraordinary feeling and privilege. The trustees of the hunt sent me seven boxes of archived materials. It was an absolute treasure trove of hunting material, including minutes from the first hunt.

“Looking through those hunting diaries was quite extraordinary. When I received the seven boxes, the first thing I did was go through them in chronological order. I made sure nothing of historical significance was left out

“There wasn't a day for six months where I didn't look at them and without them, it would have been very difficult to do the job I've done.”

Adrian also mentioned some extracts that he thought were some of the most interesting from the book.

Hampshire Chronicle:

He said: “The hunts were encouraged to continue during the First World War. They were required to control the fox population. Everything was rationed but working hunters were allowed a ration of oats to allow for a supply of fit horses, they kept the hunting going through the war.

“The appointment of George Evans to be Master and Huntsman was also important, as he put it on the map. More than 5,000 spectators lined the road on the way to his wedding, to see him get married in hunting gear.”

A copy of ‘The Hampshire Hunt 1749-2022’ can be purchased by sending £53.50 per copy (£50.00 + £3.50 UK P+P) to the Hampshire Hunt Point to Point A/C, Account No: 00727998 Sort Code: 30-90-15. Please include your name as the reference.

For more contact Nigel Webb by email webb.nigel@btconnect.com or 01962 734295.