HUNTING PINKS

The Red coats worn by hunting officials are often called Scarlets or “Pinks”.

It is thought that the term “Hunting Pinks” refers to a London tailor named Pink who bought large quantities of material after the American War of Independence in 1783 and became popular for hunting attire.

BLOODING

The act of Blooding began with King James I. This was a ceremonial-like event involving the Huntsmaster smearing the blood of the quarry onto the cheeks of newly initiated hunt follower.

THE BOLD DRAGOON!

A fanciful name given to a particular fox that is believed to have been hunted 36 times!

WHIPS & THE GOVERNMENT?

The “Whip’s Office” and the “Chief Whip” in Parliament come from the job of “Whipper-in” to the hounds.

FOLKLORE

It was believed that foxes harboured the souls and spirits of good people who had died. It was considered that if you did a fox a good turn, good luck would come your way. How the times have changed!