9th April 1926 - The Puckeridge Hunt Point-to-Point Hunt Ball and Races

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The Puckeridge Hunt Point-to-Point Hunt Ball and Races

FATAL ACCIDENT TO WELL-KNOWN RIDER

THE BALL

Quite a prominant outstanding event in the county was the Point-to-Point Hunts Ball, which took place at the Public Hall, Much Hadham, on Tuesday evening last.

All the complete organising arrangements were effectively made by Mrs North Hickley, of Hill House, Much Hadham. The other ladies, too, of the Puckeridge Hunt contributed not a little to the success of the evening.

The Public Hall was transformed into an attractive ball room. The splendour of the decorations in colour and design could not fail to please. Besides flowers, flags and pictures, there were some choice flowering plants lent by Major and Mrs O.F. Christie, of Culver Lodge. Perhaps the most noticeable feature was a number of foxes' masks that adorned the halls, and were prized trophies of many famous runs.

The ball was attended by about 190 ladies and gentlemen, the elite of the Puckeridge country. A considerable proportion of the gentlemen were in pink, and this added to the gaiety and splendour of the scene.

Newman's well-known Band from London was engaged, and gave perfect satisfaction. The programme with many of the newest dances gave general delight. Dancing began at 9.15 p.m., and the last dance closed at 3.45 a.m.

The Public Hall was connected by a covered way with the Hut, where supper was admirable served from 11 p.m.

A large number of those present at the ball also attended on Wednesday the Puckeridge Hunt Point-to-Point Steeplechase.

THE RACES

The Point-to-Point races were held near Brent Pelham on Wednesday. Although rain fell throughout the day there was a large gathering.

A fatal accident occured to Mr H. Fordham in the first race. His horse fell at one of the jumps, and in rising trod on him. Mr Fordham was at once removed to Brent Pelham where his conditions became worse, and he died early yesterday morning.

A keener huntsman it would be difficult to find, and his tragic death has come as a terrible shock to hundreds in the district. The inquest takes place this evening, and a fuller account will appear in our next issue.