AFTER the loss of the 2001 season due to the foot and mouth epidemic, the executive committee of the Hound Trailing Association is hoping to lift the 11-month long ban on Saturday, January 26 under a permit issued by DEFRA.

The permit has several conditions and the HTA has to be satisfied that these are understood by all association members before a return to action is agreed.

Just as important is the granting of full permission for leave to go-ahead from farmers and landowners as it is their goodwill and generosity that the future depends.

No trail may take place on land within one kilometre of any premises still classed as ` restricted'.

This currently includes most of the land north of Kirkby Stephen and east of the M6 (the area known as the Penrith Spur), and also north of the A66.

In terms of the seven HTA Areas this covers most of the Carlisle and Penrith and Aspatria and Wigton Areas.

However, it is hoped that by the end of February 80 per cent of these restrictions will be lifted and in the meantime trainers living within these areas will be able to run practice trails elsewhere in the county.

Special provisions must be made for each kennel wishing to train hounds on their own, but DEFRA have to be informed of each trail where two or more kennels are participating, giving two clear working days' notice.

Each promoter must notify HTA secretary Margaret Baxter at least four days before each practice trail, giving details and location, and she will pass on the information.

The promoter at each trail must ensure all conditions of the permit and Certificates of Compliance, signed and dated, must be collected from each participant before the trail can commence.

Spot checks will be made by DEFRA at practice trails throughout the county.

After the trail, the certificates must be returned to the secretary who will forward them to DEFRA.

Anyone requiring further information should contact Margaret Baxter (01768 483686).