WITH hounds to exercise and puppies being born, summer is a busy time for hunting enthusiasts in the Cotswolds.

One of the summer highlights is the Duke of Beaufort’s Puppy Show, which was held this year on Saturday, June 24 at the Badminton Kennels.

Pictured here are some of the young hounds, technically still called puppies, who were shown and judged on their conformation and movement. 

Nick Hopkins, Kennel Huntsman at the Beaufort Hunt, and his team had their work cut out showing the young hounds, while judges Martin Scott and Nigel Peel had the tough decision of selecting the best.

After much deliberation, the winning dog was announced as Poacher, walked by R. Brack from Burton, Wiltshire, and the winning bitch was announced as Porridge, walked by R. D. Montgomerie from Ashley near Tetbury.

A spokeswoman for the Beaufort Hunt said: "At last years Puppy Show everyone as soaked to the skin as the rains came down.

"2017 thankfully was little kinder with a light breeze and sunshine - perfect showing conditions.

"The joint masters were delighted to welcome a great number of hunt staff from around the country."