Dickie Power

LIMERICK, you’re a lady! Croom, the legendary home of the Maigue poets who originated the Limerick as a verse form, was the venue for the Co Limerick Foxhounds last Saturday. However, our thoughts were far from poetry as our huntsman, Fergus Stokes, now in his second season, sounded the move off. Despite his youth, Stokes is a veteran, brought up to the sound of hounds as his family kept a private pack of harriers on the farm at Tullylease he grew up in. It was a natural progression to become amateur whip to Gerry Withers in Duhallow before turning hounds to Will Brier with the Co Limerick. Assisted by Jamie Byrne, they make a formidable team up front. Not only do they bring a drive and professionalism to their role but a huge dollop of fun and good humour which makes even poor scenting days most enjoyable.