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

NATIONAL CHAMPION AND 1950s RACING PIONEER

Raffy Dawson claims Aintree’s winter JA classic spoils ...

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

ONLY IN HORSE & HOUND

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