HAYDON HUNT has been holding its annual Hound, Terrier and Lurcher Show for nigh on 40 years now – for the past decade at dramatic Steel Rigg on Hadrian’s Wall.

The excitement of dozens of dogs in the biggest turnout for many years and the blessing of the sun proved a winning combination on Sunday.

“People travelled from as far as Teesside and the middle of Scotland to take part,” said show secretary Heather McDonald.

“It was definitely a record turnout – we had well over 200 entries on the day.

“It’s such a beautiful setting and we were lucky with the weather, so that helped, but it’s a social occasion as much as anything.

“It gives country folk a reason to get together.”

There were entries from nine hunts in the large hound classes from Ullswater, Jed Forest, Border, Melbreak, North Tyne, Cumberland Foxhounds, Cumberland Farmers, South Durham and the Haydon itself.

Master of Foxhounds Thomas Scott, from Border Hunt, was ultimately presented with the Champion Hound trophy for Border Dainty the by judge, Stan Mattinson.

The reserve champion was Melbreak Crummock, fielded by Cumberland Foxhounds, champion terrier was border terrier Mishka, owned by J. Pott, reserve terrier was Lakeland terrier Ruby owned by M. Robson, champion lurcher was R. Clark’s Vinny and the reserve was Stanley Meg fielded by Howard Hughes.

“Three hound trails were run and at the end of showing we had the always popular and exciting terrier racing,” said Heather.

“A good day!”