The Derwent’s Anthony Nicholson is retiring from hunt service after his 32nd season.
Anthony started as kennel boy at the Mendip Farmers in 1979, moving to the South and West Wilts as kennelman after two seasons.
He was later promoted to first whipper-in, and then was kennel-huntsman to the Middleton from 1990-2000.
He has hunted the Derwent for the past 11 seasons, where he gained a reputation as a great teacher and mentor to young hunt staff.
A testimonial fund has been set up for him, and donations should be sent to Mrs Glynis Ludkin, Spring Farm, Langdale End, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO13 0LL.
This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (31 March, 2011)