With 36 years in hunt service behind him, Robert McCarthy is one of the country’s most senior and most respected huntsmen. He talks to Tessa Waugh about Crufts, the current situation and life in Northumberland

Although she might not look completely conventional, Spotty is practically perfect in every way and “knows her job”. In fact, she’s so versatile anyone can ride her

As winter relinquishes its grip, Tessa Waugh enjoys a copybook meet, with convivial chat, springy turf and good sport – while the real hunting aficionados demonstrate their teleporting skills

Emily Routledge and Cindy Llewellyn have paid tribute to the small horse with a big heart, who has died, aged 29

The international dressage rider tells Polly Bryan about her young superstar set to take over the mantle from Into The Blue, and why she’s never looked back since switching careers

The relentlessly positive spirit of the VWH hounds and their huntsman is infectious during a good day’s sport