THE hunting history books are being rewritten annually by Tara Harriers joint-master George Briscoe, who is now entering his 94th year. He took over as master and huntsman in 1942 at the age of 21 and this season he celebrates his 72nd season as joint master. He has hosted the opening meet for the same period both at Asigh Stud and his home at Craystown.

He is a man with all the attributes of a country gentleman, with an engaging manner, a great storyteller, and a man who maintains all that is best in hunting traditions. Many aspects of his extraordinary life are recorded in two books that are a cracking read, available in Michael Slavin’s book shop on the Hill of Tara.