AS the name suggests, the sun was rising after a very frosty night as we assembled at the Rising Sun, almost in mid-winter weather forecasts must always be discounted, particularly when it comes to planning a day’s hunting. Met Eireann had suggested it might be better to remain firmly at home or if one had to venture at all, it should be as close to home as possible and under no circumstances should outdoor or dangerous activities be undertaken. Happily hunting isn’t covered by any of the above!

As happens more often than not, the day failed to live up to the worst of the forecast. Sure, early morning saw a moderate frost and on our way, we were advised by no less than honorary secretary John Cantillon that move off might have to be delayed, but he assured us by no more than half an hour at the most.