Continuing a tradition that goes back hundreds of years, the Fermanagh Harriers, the oldest registered harrier pack in the British Isles held their annual Boxing Day meet in Enniskillen last week.

The pack comprised eleven and a half couple of mixed hounds who are showing great sport this season according to the Hunt Master Patrick Murphy.

The Master was ably assisted by Whippers-in Gerry Mullarkey and Frankie Quigley with further assistance provided by the ever enthusiastic and indefatigable Caitriona Conlon-Dempsey.

Horses mounted and photographs taken, the Hunt set off for Dunbar House through the centre of Enniskillen town to great fanfare with many delighted young and old faces lining the route to greet the Hunt.

There is always a great spirit of positivity in Enniskillen towards the Hunt which the 50 or so mounted followers are said to enjoy so much. Many Boxing Day followers enjoy the parade and it is especially encouraging for the Fermanagh Harriers’ younger members.

Nick and Ciara Hambly of Dunbar House provided the Hunt with welcome refreshments at their country house on the Lough Shore Road.

The Hunt followers were able to enjoy the panoramic views of Devenish Island and Lough Erne from the high slopes of Ivan and Victor Bothwell’s lands.

Quarry was found on two or three occasions during the days hunting but in the spirit of the festive season was given best and a very happy and contented crowd retired to the Silver Swallow to tell a few yarns and make arrangements for the upcoming meets which include Clones (Fitzpatrick’s Fuels) and the children’s hunt on New Year’s Day, where all visitors are welcome.

The Hunt only exists with the co-operation of farmers and landowners and the Fermanagh Harriers would like to thank them for their support.

The Fermanagh Harriers hold their annual Hunt Ball on Saturday, January 18 at the Killyhevlin Hotel, as always tickets are limited so get them early from the Hunt Secretary Caitriona Conlan-Dempsey.