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The Dunston Story

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Mr Robert Fellowes founded The Dunston Harriers in 1830. Originally based at Shotesham Park, the hounds were a private pack. Before long however, the wonderful surroundings, the local love of horses and nature evolved into the Dunston Harriers and the Trail Hunt we enjoy today.

The Dunston has survived very difficult times, not least between 1939 and 1945. Although there was very little hunting, the master, Lt.Col. R J Read personally subsidised the upkeep of the hounds for the duration of the war.

In 1966 things became so difficult for the Hunt, with lack of funds and the sale of the Kennels, that the hounds were drafted out to other packs and the Hunt ceased. In 1968 under new mastership, the Dunston Harriers reformed, including some of the original hounds.They were based at Wacton, where they stayed for many years.

In 1984 The master and owner of the Kennels announced he was about to sell to a developer. Within a month, the committee had gathered enough support from local people to buy the kennels and the huntsman's quarters, which they still own today. The hunt was saved! The opening meet had a record turnout of 111 mounted followers.

Many master have come and gone since then. Most notable was the late Shiela Castle. She was a tremendously popular master for 35 years until 2008. She died at the age of 84 after an accident on the hunting field.

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