DOZENS of people visited the kennels of the Hursley Hambledon Hunt to enjoy its annual hound sponsorship party.

The event was held at the hunt’s kennels in Droxford, with approximately 60 hounds on display.

Sponsorships allow the group to look after the dogs, with the money covering costs associated with keeping the dogs fed and healthy.

Around 60 hounds were shown offAround 60 hounds were shown off (Image: Chris Atkinson)

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Georgina Bastian, one of the joint masters of the hunt, explained to the Chronicle: “People can sponsor a hound for a small amount of money and then their name is associated with that hound. The money goes towards the upkeep of the hounds; it covers their food and medical fees, things like that.

“A lot of people here today don’t go hunting with us, but they like the hounds and get involved that way.”

The sponsorship party involves letting the hounds out of the kennels in groups, where they are then allowed to run around while the attendees watch and learn more about the individual hound.

The attendees can then pay money to sponsor a hound, with some sponsoring multiple.

Huntsman Kieran Hawkes said: “Today has been great. It is great for the hounds, and the hunt in general, and shows how much support we still have from the public.

“The support is crucial for us. When the public sees how much support we get, it really affects their view of us.”

Following the showing of the hounds, a pair of rosettes were given out, with Tania and Tilly Garforth receiving best hound sponsored for a season by a junior on behalf of the Hursley Pony Club, for sponsoring the hounds Marksman and Dancer.

The event ended with a traditional tea in the kennel grounds.

Victoria Cobden, co-chair of the Hursley Hambledon Hunt, said: “I think today has been great, we had more people than expected. This is all to keep the hunt going – it is more than the financial support that this event brings.”

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Victoria CobdenVictoria Cobden (Image: Chris Atkinson)

When asked about the wide range of ages attending the event, Victoria said: “We need to keep the younger generation involved and interested. It is a bit of a cliché, but the children are our future.

“The sponsorships themselves raise about £4,000, and it all goes towards medical costs, such as getting the dogs vaccinated and keeping them in good health.

“We have a fun ride coming up later in August, which we are looking forward to. I think it is great that one sport can cover so many interests.”

For more information on the Hursley Hambledon Hunt, visit its website.