Vets, doctors and volunteers all play a part in helping point-to-points run safely. Euan Laidlaw MRCVS outlines how they do so

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

ONLY IN HORSE & HOUND

A horrific road accident left Matthew Guntrip’s life hanging in the balance, but he came out fighting

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

Winter preparation paid dividends with confident step-ups, big scores and emerging talent delivered across the levels