Etiquette
The following are some of the traditions that are associated with hunting with the Pendle Forest and Craven Hunt.
Gates
It is the duty of all members to ensure that all gates that have been opened are closed. You may hear people shout 'gate please' as you go through a gateway, that means it has been opened and the last one through must close it so follow suit and shout 'Gate please' to the person following you. As long as the message is passed back the gate will get closed and stock will not end up out of the farmers field. Leaving a gate open or not fastening them correctly could lead to us not being able to hunt on that land again so you can see how important it is. Please thank any person who opens the gate.Meets
It is discourteous to arrive late for the meet so be prompt and give yourself plenty of time t get there without rushing - 15 minutes before meet time would be adequate to arrive on your horse. A "Good Morning" to the masters is always appreciated, as is a "Thank You, Good Night" at the end of the day. If you are not sure who the Masters or Field Master (person who will lead the field that day) is then do not be afraid to ask someone on a horse - they will be more than happy to help you out.
Meets can be cancelled or changed at short notice due to frost or saturated ground conditions etc. It is advisable to ring the Hunt Secretary on 01756 749647 before setting off. A recorded message with the latest information will be available from 8.00am the morning of the meet.
Headware
The correct colour of headware for gentlemen wearing the black coat is a dark green riding hat or dark green silk cover, if a bowler or top hat is not worn. Black caps are reserved for farmers and hunt officials. Ribbons on caps must not be worn as this custom is reserved for masters and hunt servants. Please take a look at the dress guide for further details.
Fences
If any damage to a fence is caused this must be reported to the Area Controller, Field Master or Hunt Secretary. We do ask that no more than three attempts be made at any one fence thus causing minimum damage to the land.Visitors' caps -
Please note cap is £30 to all under 25s throughout the season now.
Visitors must pay their cap money to the Hunt Secretary or his assistant before hunting begins (he will normally be the one carrying a bag over his shoulder) Payment by cheque is preferable, in an envelope bearing your name, address and telephone number if possible. Please arrange your visit with the Hunt Secretary at least one day before the meet.Your cooperation in maintaining these traditions would be appreciated.