Horses, hounds and riders are all ready for hunt day in the village of Ruan in County Clare.
Since the late 18th century, the day of the hunt has been an annual highlight in the village of Ruan, near Ennis in County Clare.
The Ruan hunt is a drag hunt, meaning it does not have a quarry. Horse riders hunt the trail of an artificially laid scent with hounds. The Clare hounds are kept in kennels in the village of Bodyke and they hunt from village to village during the winter.
The Ruan hunt is organised by PJ Purcell and Gerard Hehir. There are few activities in the quiet farming community but the hunt attracts enthusiasts from many walks of life.
The biggest day of the year is probably the hunt here when all the hunting crowed supporters farmers and everybody comes out to see the hunt for the day.
There is a lot of preparation involved for the hunt to proceed safely. Landowners must give permission for the hunt to go through their property. The land in Ruan is good for hunting as there are no trenches or drains.
Vice-chairman of the Clare Hunt Paddy Hannon, says the hunt follows a set route. This is beneficial as it minimises damage to valuable farm land and it makes repairs easier once the hunt is over.
On the day of the hunt 'cap money' is collected from each member to repair damages to walls during the hunt. The hunt ball also raises much needed funds.
‘Day of the Hunt’ was broadcast on 22 April 1985. The presenter is Brian McSharry.
