THE weather gods were smiling on Monday morning for an autumn hunting meet of the Co Limerick Foxhounds at historic Lough Gur. There can be few more picturesque spots than Lough Gur, near Bruff, Co. Limerick.

It has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and has been the site of some major archaeological digs. The Farm by Lough Gur is a well known book on early 20th century farm life and the farm mentioned is now the property of former Co Limerick master Mrs Olivia Hoare.

Plans are well advanced to bring the old farmstead back to its former glory and in the meantime, a Yurt has been erected which after hunting served as a venue for breakfast. Oliva was on hand and she and her late husband Michael Hoare were both joint-masters.

Huntsman Fergus Stokes had 19 and a half couple of his best hounds out.

Hounds had barely touched down when a fine fox was viewed by whipper-in Nathan O’Connor, formerly of the Galway Blazers, who had their opening meet this week in Turloughmore. The team was completed by former whipper-in Jamie Byrne.

The small mounted field were entertained to some marvellous music as hounds hunted the steep slopes overlooking the lake.

Hunt secretary Deirdre Hogan who, when not hunting, is a senior bank official and was out on the bay Rocky as was AnnMarie Walsh accompanied by her son Jake. Belinda Johnston made the early arrivals.

Somewhat late in arriving was area manager and local dairy farmer Seamus Murnane who was delayed by milking duties. With no shortage of foxes, hounds hunted very well and it must augar well for a good season ahead.

The Co Limericks’ opening meet will be held on Saturday, November 3rd in Bruff.

(The Irish Field’s hunting coverage will return in November)