FOR more than 30 seasons, the Laois Foxhounds have been making their annual pilgrimage south to Pallaskenry to jump the west Limerick walls and hunt with the famed Stonehall Harriers, now hunting into their second century. At this stage, the visit is listed in the sporting almanacs and has become a real fixture.

In the intervening years, much has changed, but what has remained constant is that the expedition is still led by David Lalor MFH, who has been master since 1992, a staggering 34 seasons, and he still crosses the country with dash and colour.