The Heythrop hounds where exercising around here this morning which caused a bit of excitement with a few of the horses. Charles Frampton, the new huntsman came into see me once the hounds had been taken home. I have met Charles previously shooting in Dorset and at a lunch party hosted by Ralph Beckett. I do not envy his job but am sure he will do well. He hunted the Portman hounds for many years and they have as big as country as any hunt in England. He won't have a problem crossing Heythrop country coming from there. I have had some great days in the Portman country and you need to be well mounted!
Connaugt Sqaure and Cestus worked, I need another week with Connaught Square and will by-pass Uttoxeter. Wanting another week is a pain as I either travel to Perth which is highly unlikely or I wait another 2-3 weeks for something closer to home. Charlie was in to ride out first lot and then watched the others work. Sam rode Connaught Square and I rode Cetsus. Cestus is coming to hand and I will look for a race for him in 2-3 weeks time. It is lovely to be back with the horses and going away has huge benefits. Not only do I feel a little rested it makes me realise how much I love doing what I do.
