Holkham Country Fair

Lurchers

Organised by the National Lurcher and Racing Club

Situated north of the House towards the Clay Pigeons

Lurchers are a cross breed, a sight hound crossed with another type of dog, usually a herding dog or a terrier. The type of cross acquired usually depends on the quarry and the ground on which you hunt, although today many lurchers are no more than family pets as they are very biddable and have excellent temperaments. The crossing of two sight hounds will produce what is known as a “longdog” - for example a whippet greyhound or a saluki greyhound. The latter are less popular now due to the outlawing of hare coursing.

Originally only the gentry were allowed to own running dogs but the lower classes soon realised that they too could own an animal that would be capable of keeping the family with food on the table; hence their description as being “pot fillers” by disguising the pure running lines with the introduction of a herding dog or terrier. Not only did this disguise the running dog but also helped with the stamina and brain.

Lurchers are used as a form of pest control, usually on rabbits and occasionally on rats. They are bred for stamina, strength and speed, and are one of the most successful forms of pest control as the quarry is either killed outright or escapes unharmed. Unlike other forms of pest control, the work of a lurcher does not cause any suffering or leave any toxins either above or in the ground. Many lurchers can be found working along side gundogs on shoots.

Since the formation of the National Lurcher and Racing Club in 1980 many different recreational competitions for lurchers have become available. As well as showing, there are competitions in straight racing, hurdle racing, high jump, long jump, obedience, as well as simulated coursing. Most of these competitions are designed to both keep the dogs fit during the summer months and to keep up with the dog’s training. Even the most well-trained dogs need to be put through their paces regularly if the handler wants to keep up to a reasonable standard. The showing competition offers lurcher enthusiasts a chance to qualify for the NL&RC Championship held at Chatsworth in Derbyshire in September and also gives the owners and handlers a chance to meet up socially with friends.

If you have an interest in lurchers or the National Lurcher and Racing Club, come along to the lurcher area; we will be pleased to see you - or take a look at our web site www.nlrc.co.uk

We can be contacted by sending a SAE to NL&RC, 58 Wessington Lane, South Wingfield, Alfreton, Derby DE55 7NB.
Tel 01773 835291 or e-mail lindavaughannlrc@btopenworld.com